Crystal Meth in Los Angeles: Production and Consumption Hub of the West

Crystal Meth in Los Angeles: Production and Consumption Hub of the West

Methamphetamine poses a significant drug threat. Los Angeles is a **major methamphetamine market and distribution center** for the West and Southwest U.S.. California remains a major domestic source for the entire US.

Regional Usage and Sourcing

• US Context: The Western U.S. is characterized by the highest rates of methamphetamine use and addiction.
• Sourcing: **Mexican Drug Trafficking Organizations (DTOs)** control distribution and import meth from labs in Mexico and Southern California.
• Purity and Forms: The market is dominated by high-purity crystal meth (Ice), with purity consistently **exceeding 90%** nationwide.

Severe Health and Social Consequences

The harms associated with methamphetamine use are universally severe and often linked with the opioid crisis.

• Cardiovascular Damage: Use immediately increases heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to stroke, heart attack, and heart failure.
• Psychosis and Paranoia: Long-term use is linked to severe psychotic symptoms, including paranoia and hallucinations.
• Infections: Injecting methamphetamine significantly increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting blood-borne viruses like **HIV and viral hepatitis**.

Legality and Penalties in California (Federal)

Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act.

• Classification: Methamphetamine is a **Schedule II** stimulant with a high potential for abuse.
• Trafficking Penalties: Federal trafficking penalties are severe and quantity-based, ranging from **5 to 40 years** for a first offense involving 5 grams of pure meth or 50 grams of mixture, escalating to mandatory life imprisonment for repeat offenders with large quantities (50g pure / 500g mixture) resulting in death or serious injury.