Crystal Meth in Surrey: British Columbia’s Stimulant Hotspot

Crystal Meth in Surrey: British Columbia’s Stimulant Hotspot

Methamphetamine poses a severe drug threat in Surrey, located in the Greater Vancouver metropolitan area. The city is subject to the high rates of methamphetamine abuse and fentanyl co-use characteristic of British Columbia.

Regional Usage and Sourcing

• Usage Context:
British Columbia has a high lifetime usage rate (7.3%) for methamphetamine in Canada. Over 70% of participants accessing harm reduction in the region reported crystal meth use.
• Sourcing:
The drug is produced in clandestine labs in B.C., with 20 labs dismantled in one reporting period. Asian DTOs and OMGs are heavily involved in its production and distribution.
• Co-Use Threat:
Co-use with **fentanyl** is high (47.2% to 69.1% of users), significantly increasing overdose risk.

Severe Health and Social Consequences

Methamphetamine abuse creates severe harms, including a high risk of contracting infectious diseases.

• Physical Harms:
Meth use can cause heart attack, stroke, and sudden cardiac death, even in young users. Overdose symptoms include psychosis, rapid heart rate, and liver/kidney failure.
• Psychological Harms:
Users may experience psychosis, paranoia, violent behavior, and permanent brain damage.
• Community Impact:
Increased crime, including property offenses and identity theft, is associated with meth prevalence.

Legality and Penalties in Canada

Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA).

• Personal Possession (Indictable):
Maximum penalty is **seven years imprisonment**.
• Trafficking/Production (Indictable):
Maximum penalty is **life imprisonment**.
• First Offense (Summary Conviction):
May result in a fine up to $$1,000$ or imprisonment up to six months, or both.