NCJ Number
102805
Journal
Bulletin of New York Academy of Medicine Volume: 62 Issue: 5 Dated: (June 1986) Pages: 497-508
Date Published
1986
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Almost one-fourth of homicides committed in Dade County, Fla., between 1978 and 1982 were drug-related, according to a detailed analysis of police records, medical examiner records, and added information provided by police officers and medical examiners.
Abstract
The analysis determined whether each victim was a known drug importer or or whether the homicide took place during a drug deal or as a result of conflict over importation or distribution. Miami experienced a 60 percent increase in homicides during the 5-year period. Hispanics were the victims of 60 percent of the drug-related homicides and only 20 percent of the other homicides. More than 37 percent of the victims of both drug-related homicides and other homicides had criminal records. Most drug-related homicides involved guns. About 11 percent of the victims of homicides not related to drugs had drugs in their bodies, suggesting the underestimation of drug-related crime. Further research and theory development should consider the role of the economics of drug distribution and the relationships among cultural aggressiveness, the physical effects of stimulants like cocaine, and conflict management and resolution. Data tables, 32 references.