Morning Roundup: Dec. 3, 2018

Drug Lord Who Changed His Face Testifies Against 'El Chapo' [NBC News]
A drug trafficker known for undergoing extreme plastic surgery to hide his identity testified in the trial of drug kingpin Joaquin Guzman. He is the third former trafficker to testify in the high-profile trial.

Seminar Explores Drug Addiction in African-American Community [NBC4]
People gathered for a seminar on drug problems in the African-American community in Columbus, Ohio. Families are hoping that by sharing their grief, they can help others avoid the same loss.

Iowa's First 5 Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Opened Saturday [Leafly]
This past Saturday, medical marijuana dispensaries opened for the first time in Iowa. The state is finally implementing its 2017 law allowing medical marijuana with limited THC content. 

Methamphetamine Use on the Rise Among Pregnant Women [NPR]
According to researchers, thousands of American women have used methamphetamine or prescription amphetamines during pregnancy in recent years. Regions of the U.S. that are most affected are the South, Midwest and the West. 

3 Police Officers Found Guilty of Murder in Philippines' War on Drugs [Texas Public Radio]
A judge has sentenced three police officers to 40 years in prison for the murder of a 17-year-old in 2017. Kian delos Santos was one of 96 alleged drug suspects killed by national police in just three days. His death sparked outrage toward the bloody drug war.

NYC Mayor Unveils Plan to Fight Opioid Epidemic in South Bronx [NYC]
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a new plan to help the South Bronx, an area disproportionately affected by drugs. The Bronx Action Plan will provide funding for health programs, awareness campaigns, and naloxone kits in the area.

Indiana Sues Purdue Pharma Over Opioid Drug Addiction Costs [Indiana Daily Student]
Opioid problems cost Indiana over $4 billion every year, according to a study. The state is now seeking compensation from the maker of OxyContin for its role in fueling opioid addiction.

Perspective: America Doesn't Understand Gateway Drugs [The Atlantic]
Amanda Mull writes a critique of the "gateway theory." This was the basis of years of public health and criminal justice policy.