Mattie, you're in a tough spot, but your daughter is in a worse one. You certainly do need to exercise tough love at this point. Going to jail at 19 will not ruin her life. It could be the wake up call SHE needs. On the other hand , jail won't help her to kick her addiction. The correct rehab program might. Might, because she has to want the change. Have you tried intervention ?

This is your child and you need to hang tough. My prayers are with you. I went through this with my son at 19. His addiction was crank. He was living away from home. I brought him to live with me and removed him from his source. If you know your daughters source, report them.

Never give up on your child.

ETA- There is an ad on my screen : Herion Rapid Detox Leader @ www.opiates.com. Search the internet Mattie.

Oh Mattie, I'm sorry for your pain.

My 21 year old son is an alcoholic. He has been alcoholic for about 3 years now, and has only recently admitted it to himself.

In my case, I had no choice other than "tough love". I have a 10 year old at home and could not risk his being exposed to his brother's mood swings, irresponsible behavior, stealing, and poor choices.

After 2 years of perilous living circumstances, he now lives with my daughter and her family. He recently began attending AA meetings on my recommendation and is draining my bank account for reading material on substance abuse. But he IS getting better.

Hang in there. Unfortunately, the paths our children choose are uniquely their own. Our job is to love them, no matter where we find them.