NCJ Number
145946
Date Published
1994
Length
212 pages
Annotation
This research examined drug-control strategies used by the San Diego Police Department; described the drug targets; and determined the consequences for offenders with respect to arrests, convictions, and sentences.
Abstract
A related objective was to examine an approach that targeted crack cocaine. The research procedures included the case tracking of 1,432 arrests made by three divisions, compiling such information as sociodemographic features of offenders, type and level of arrest charge, drug and property seizures, strategies used, charges filed, and dispositions. Surveys of narcotics officers solicited their opinions about strategies, descriptions of distinct levels of dealers, and perceptions of impediments to effective drug control. Interviews were conducted with 123 drug offenders arrested by the divisions. Questions focused on drug-use patterns and drug market dynamics. Study results show that the multifaceted approach of the police department, using both uniformed and plainclothes officers, provided the means to target specific types of drug violators and hold a proportion of them accountable through consequences. The buy/bust tactic was most likely to result in arrests, convictions, and sentences to State prison, but the volume of drugs seized was greater with the use of search warrants. Offenders, more so than police officers, favored greater emphasis on drug treatment and education. Officers cited jail crowding as the most significant factor that impeded the effectiveness of their efforts. The study confirmed that nearly half of the misdemeanor arrests were still pending due to failures to appear for court hearings. Although an integrated approach is required to reduce drug abuse, the need for enforcement remains. 32 references, appended forms, 67 tables, and 7 figures