Flexing muscle
Federal authorities championed last week’s underground steroid bust as a major victory in an ongoing struggle against the drugs. Steroid users, though, say steroids’ effects are often exaggerated and that the government should spend its time and efforts combating other problems.
The Drug Enforcement Administration spent nearly two years on the latest sting, dubbed Operation Raw Deal. The operation resulted in the arrest of more than 120 people and the seizure of 242 kilograms of raw steroid powder. Officials hailed the bust but said it will be far from the last steroid sting.
One member of the online steroid community, Greg Powell, who said he has registered at more than 100 message boards for steroid users, said the government is persecuting otherwise good people.
“They’ve got good hearts,” Powell said. “What are they guilty of, trying to look better?”
Powell said users should research their genetic history before taking steroids. He also warns against believing what he sees as government propaganda about steroids.
Are steroids a health menace, and how much priority should the government place on enforcing laws against steroid use?