A sign that reads, “If you see something, say something,” hangs in the lobby of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office.

The saying might seem a bit cliché, but it was that mentality that landed five people behind bars for making meth in an apartment in South Point back in July.

Last week, one of those defendants was found guilty by a jury in Lawrence County Common Pleas Court and was sentenced Wednesday to seven years in prison. Two others have also received prison time.

Sheriff’s deputies were called to the scene after someone reported a strange odor and smoke coming from the apartment.

Had it not been for a vigilant community member, the meth production could have continued, putting more drugs on the street and putting the residents of the apartment complex in danger of noxious gases and a potential explosion of the volatile ingredients.

It is no secret that drugs are a scourge on many communities across the United States, including Lawrence County.

So how long are residents supposed to put up with it?

Whether it is prescription drugs, heroin or meth, they all endanger the lives of the people in the community. So the community needs to step up, take notice and take back their neighborhoods.

If you see suspected drug activity, call your local police department or the sheriff’s office. It’s time to let the drug dealers and users know that the community has a watchful eye and the issue is being taken seriously.