Ep 7. Big Sky Meth

In season 1, episode 7 of Drugs, Inc. titled "Big Sky Meth", viewers are taken to the rural state of Montana to explore the devastating impact of methamphetamine on small communities. The episode begins with a stark realization that meth is the drug of choice in Montana and has resulted in the state having one of the highest rates of drug addiction and overdose deaths in the country.

The documentary delves deep into the production, distribution, and consumption of meth in Montana. The state's isolated location and vast expanse of land make it a perfect location for illegal operations to produce the drug, and meth labs are using makeshift locations such as campers and trailers to cook and sell the drug. The show provides a gritty and realistic portrayal of the meth problem, with undercover footage showing addicts injecting the drug and dealers brewing the toxic substance.

The episode focuses on two major meth rings in Montana - Operation Raw Deal and Operation Wildfire. The former ring is run by a man named Brian Hatfield and his girlfriend, Jamie. Their operation involves purchasing large quantities of pseudoephedrine, a key ingredient in meth, from pharmacies across the state, and then using it to manufacture and sell the high-quality methamphetamine.

The latter ring is run by a man named Chad Tipton, who operates from a remote cabin in the woods. His method of production is highly dangerous and involves using a mobile lab to produce the drug outdoors. Chad's operation is responsible for distributing a huge amount of the drug in Montana and has been responsible for multiple overdoses and deaths.

The episode also highlights the devastating impact of meth on communities, both large and small. The drug has led to higher instances of domestic violence, theft, and crime, and addiction has taken a toll on families and relationships. The show presents the stories of drug users who have lost everything - their homes, their families, their health - as a result of their addiction. It also examines why people turn to drugs in the first place and finds that poverty, boredom, and hopelessness are major factors.

The documentary also explores the efforts made by Montana law enforcement to curb the meth crisis. The state's Drug Task Force is shown raiding meth labs, tracking down dealers, and destroying the drug's production infrastructure. The show presents the challenges faced by law enforcement officers, including the lack of resources and funding to combat the problem on a large scale.

Overall, "Big Sky Meth" is a raw and harrowing look at the methamphetamine epidemic in rural Montana. The show offers a glimpse into the lives of those affected by addiction and the lengths people will go to make and sell drugs. It also highlights the need for increased resources and funding from the government to tackle the problem head-on and prevent meth from destroying more lives.