Fisher cited an increase in methamphetamine labs and prescription drug abuse for the increase. Investigators have found 223 meth labs in the state so far this calendar year, he said. That's 50 percent more than in the same time period in 2008, he said.

Fisher said drug arrests have been made in every county this year. More populated counties with interstate traffic, such as Hinds and Harrison, show more illegal drug activity, he said.

State lawmakers tried to curb meth labs by passing legislation a few years ago that restricted the purchase of over-the-counter medication used to make the drug. Fisher said meth makers are now buying the medication at different stores and "making smaller batches."

The Methamphetamine Reduction Act of 2005, also known as the precursor law, put restrictions on products containing pseudoephedrine and ephedrine - ingredients used to make meth.

Fisher said a federal grant could help him replace some of the 11 officers he's lost over the last year. Gov. Haley Barbour is urging state agencies to be careful with their spending since revenues fell 11.3 percent short of expectations in July, the first month of the current fiscal year.

Lawmakers put restrictions on Internet drug sales in the last session. Fisher said he plans to push for more legislation in the next session and and continue training programs for local law enforcement officials.

Two thoughts: first, this is a typical alarmist article from the media.  I suppose I shouldn't be surprised at the Clarion Ledger pushing hysteria about meth labs and drug overdoses.  But, I'd rather see some real data.  Which leads to my second thought: I think it's quite a logical leap to say meth labs and prescription drug abuse are on the rise based only on the number of arrests.  Maybe MBN is simply operating more effectively.  Again, real data would be interesting.