With some cities in Wisconsin seeing a rise in teen methamphetamine use and other drugs, school and police officials in Eau Claire are hoping to enlist the help of parents to run some interference. They recently set up a mock teenage bedroom at parent- teacher conference night to teach parents how to spot signs of drug use or even find hidden drugs in their children’s rooms.
The first clue that your teen may be gaining familiarity with drug culture might be found in posters or clothing emblazoned with 420, Dab City or other references to drugs. It may also be they are visiting websites related to drug use or have an online social network of friends and acquaintances extolling the fact they are using drugs. Because so much of teen life revolves around the internet, taking a peek at your teen’s browsing history or exchanges on various social media platforms may speak volumes.
As far as uncovering secret stashes, it turns out that hiding drugs and related paraphernalia is big business as there are many stealthy products on the market to choose from. These range from shaving cream containers with false bottoms to new and improved retro-style books with false compartments. There are even computer mouse attachments with hidden digital scales inside for teens who may have graduated from using to selling drugs.
Odor busters may include everyday items such as dryer sheets to manufactured colorful glass containers called doobtubes. Some regular marijuana smokers will create kits to help them hide drug use containing eye drops, cologne, breath mints and hand sanitizer in a handy zip pouch which is easy to spot.
As for beverages, parents should look for a plethora of possibilities. On your teen’s way out to an event or if you are hosting a party at your house, be on the lookout for cough or cold syrups which can be blended into intoxicating drinks. Keep an eye out for sports drinks blended with alcohol and also look for flasks that come in all shapes and sizes, including hair brushes with flip container handles to flip flops with hidden flask compartments.
Teen drug and alcohol use can result in a number of serious consequences. The hope is that parents who are more informed will intervene if they think their child might being using drugs or alcohol to prevent a problem from escalating into a serious drug or alcohol use issue or their child being charged with a drug or alcohol related crime. As for the event in Eau Claire, it was certainly an eye opener for parents and, perhaps unintentionally, for students. One freshman commented, “I’ve never seen any of that before….I’m definitely not creative enough to do that.” Let’s hope…
Wisconsin Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyers
If your family member has been charged with a drug crime, Wisconsin DUI, assault, or other crimes, call the Waukesha, Wisconsin juvenile defense lawyers of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for help today. With your young adult’s future at stake, it is important to work with an experienced juvenile defense attorney to fight against the charges. Call our office at 262-542-3900 for a free and confidential consultation.
