Programs

Drug Endangered Children Task Force

The Drug Endangered Children Task Force was developed in October of 2000 after the CASRC was informed of the problem with methamphetamine being manufactured in our county.
The CASRC was alarmed to find that Contra Costa County is the fourth largest methamphetamine-producing county in the state of California. The CASRC is concerned that children who live in homes where mehtamphetamine is being manufactured are not only exposed to the drug itself, but also the toxic chemicals used in making the drug. There is also the danger of a fire or explosion when chemicals are being mixed.
The committee is concerned by the extent of child abuse and neglect that occurs when a child is living under these circumstances. As a result, the DEC task force has been working over the past two years to develop guidelines for law enforcement, district attorneys, children and family services and medical professionals to address the issues of child abuse in a collaborative effort.
The goal of the DEC task force is to improve the health of children exposed to chemicals associated with methamphetamine production by identifying the physical, psychological and sociological effects on children and providing appropriate intervention.
The DEC is also responsible for developing a collaborative response between local Law Enforcement agencies, the District Attorney's office, Public Health and Children and Family Services.