Hanover crackdown

An undercover police officer who went on a 2 1/2-month buying spree on Cape Girardeau's South Hanover Street purchased small amounts of crack cocaine 47 different times. Most of the transactions amounted to $20. That's hardly big time drug dealing, but police say the street is an "open-air market" for crack.

Who would want their children growing up in that atmosphere?

As a result of the buys along South Hanover Street, 12 people have been arrested so far on warrants for selling drugs. Four more people were arrested for selling drugs to the undercover cop elsewhere.

One of those arrested was a top basketball player at Cape Girardeau Central High School, just 17 years old.

Cape Girardeau has a problem with lawlessness on South Hanover Street, including instances of large gatherings partying in the street. Law-abiding people who live on the street have a right to the same civility to be found in other neighborhoods of the city. We hope this crackdown signals that the party's over.