Troup PD takes lead on drugs
BY CHARLOTTE SMITH Editor

Two of the most common concerns of parents - teen drug use and missing children - are being addressed through new Troup Police Department initiatives.

At the high school, the department is offering drug-testing kits to parents who have concerns about their teenagers; at the elementary, child identification packets are available so vital information can be recorded and readily available in case of an emergency.

Both initiatives reflect the department's desire to be pro-active concerning important issues.

"That's what we're all about," said Chief Pat Hendrix. "We're not doing this because we have a drug problem, we're doing it because we don't want to have a drug problem."

Hendrix added that the child identification information packet is also a way to stay ahead of a potential crisis situation.

"You'd be surprised how many parents don't know how tall their children are," he said, adding that the stress of an actual missing child case can make it even more difficult for parents to recall such details correctly.

Taking the LEAD

At a nominal cost of $20, parents can purchase a LEAD (Law Enforce- ment Against Drugs) test kit and perform the test in the privacy of their own homes. From there, the choice is theirs to act on the information or not.

"Everything starts at home," said Hendrix. "This is just a tool that we're providing to parents if they have suspicions. This will confirm it or clear it up."

Hendrix added that what parents do with the results of the test is their choice. The LEAD test kit comes with an 800 number as well as other information to direct parents to appropriate community resources.

The kit also gives parents insight into physical and behavioral signs to look for.

"These are things that normal parents may not know, but we as peace officers look for," said Hendrix.

An added benefit, said Hendrix, is that kids who feel peer pressure to do drugs can use the kits as an "out."

The kit can only be used once, but the multi-panel format will test for things such as marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine/ crack, opiates/morphine/ heroin and club drugs.

The department is also providing alcohol test strips free of charge.

The LEAD program is being held in affiliation with Troup ISD and kits can be purchased at the office of school resource officer Lanny Becker. Troup Police Department is the first in the state to participate in the program.

The department initially ordered 25 kits, but will order more to meet demand.

Child Identification

The second initiative of the Troup PD offers parents the opportunity to complete a child identification packet that can be readily available in case the unthinkable happens.

These brochures are also available from Becker and include all the information that would be necessary to issue an Amber Alert.

Parents can record their child's personal information, such as date of birth, height, weight, eye color, social security number, distinguishing physical characteristics and other medical information, etc., and have their dentist complete a dental information section.

The ID kit also gives parents the tools to fingerprint their child, or the Troup PD will do it for them, said Hendrix.