NATION IN BRIEF : SOUTH CAROLINA : Sheriff Asks Citizens to Make Drug Buys

A sheriff who says he is short-staffed is encouraging residents of Anderson, S.C., to buy illegal drugs--and promising them up to 25% of any money or assets seized from dealers they help arrest. Participants may either work as buyers who testify in court or as confidential informants, although those who testify probably will be paid more, Anderson County Sheriff Gene Taylor said. “I want people to realize they can make some really good money,” Taylor said. Security will be provided during drug transactions. Billboards scheduled to go up Feb. 2 will proclaim: “Need cash? Turn in a dope dealer.”