NCJ Number
110637
Date Published
1987
Length
14 pages
Annotation
Cocaine and heroin should not be decriminalized because cocaine, especially in the form of 'crack,' is extremely dangerous.
Abstract
To make cocaine available cheaply will mean addicts will use far more cocaine, hence accelerating all of the tragic symptoms. Even 'legal' drugs would cost money and addicts in the new age of decriminalization would have to resort to crime in order to sustain their habits. To blame the symptoms of cocaine use on the lack of 'quality control' is to dodge the issue that these terrible effects are caused by the drug and would continue to debilitate users even if dispensed by a physician. Drug use or abuse may be an individual matter, but there are countless innocent victims involved, including infants born as addicts and those affected by drug abuse by those whose job performance affects their safety. To decriminalize raises a host of unanswered questions such as who should receive prescriptions, at what age, what concentration of drug is dispensed, and in what form. It is estimated that one in four Americans would become addicts if drugs were decriminalized. The freedom of choice implied by drug decriminalization does not take into account those who cannot make wise choices for their own health and well-being. The proponents for such reform must make a stronger case that their 'cure' is not far worse than the 'disease.'