VALENTINE, Neb. -- A South Dakota woman and a Nebraska man are facing charges after Valentine Police discovered methamphetamine during a traffic stop at the town’s city park.

The 27-year-old woman and the 24-year-old man from Oshkosh, were arrested for possession of a controlled substance on June 30.

Methamphetamine seizures in Nebraska have surged over the past five years, with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reporting more than 1,000 pounds seized in 2023—the largest in five years. In response, federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies have formed a coalition to combat the rising meth problem.

“We want citizens to be fully informed about the dangers of meth consumption and understand the destruction it brings to communities by increasing crime, addiction, and health issues,” the Coalition to Fight Meth’s website states.

In a News Channel Nebraska report earlier this year, Sheridan County Sheriff Jeff Brewer highlighted the prevalence of drug-related crimes.

“In 35 years of law enforcement, I only saw meth once or twice. Now I’m seeing it almost on a weekly basis,” Brewer said.

Valentine Police Chief Dana Miller echoed these concerns, noting that much of the crime in her jurisdiction also stems from drug-related issues.