NCJ Number
201539
Date Published
July 2003
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This report is an update to the Connecticut Drug Threat Assessment, which offers a strategic assessment of the drug threat in Connecticut.
Abstract
This report updates the state of drug distribution and abuse in Connecticut. Using analytical judgment based on available data, the threat posed by heroin, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, and a category of “other dangerous drugs,” was assessed for the State of Connecticut. The transportation of these drugs through Connecticut also poses a problem for the State, with primarily heroin and cocaine passing through the State on its way to Massachusetts and Vermont. A threat assessment for each drug is offered in separate sections of the report. Heroin is described as the greatest drug threat to Connecticut. The number of treatment admissions for heroin abuse exceeded admissions for any other illegal drug during 2001. Cocaine is described as a significant threat to Connecticut, both powered and crack. Thirteen of 47 reporting law enforcement agencies throughout Connecticut noted cocaine as a high threat in their jurisdictions. Marijuana is another significant threat in Connecticut, and is noted as being the most readily available illicit drug in the State. A moderate threat is posed by a category of “other dangerous drugs,” which include MDMA, GHB, LSD, and ketamine. This category of drug is primarily used and distributed by adolescents, making them particularly problematic. Finally, methamphetamine is described as a low threat to Connecticut, with amphetamine-related admissions to treatment facilities remaining low. Methamphetamine laboratory seizures in Connecticut are rare. The conclusion offers a brief outlook for the future drug threat to Connecticut.