NCJ Number
129420
Date Published
1991
Length
423 pages
Annotation
This book reviews the nature of the illicit drug problem in the United States, discusses organized crime's involvement in drug trafficking, and addresses issues in drug control policy.
Abstract
Chapters in Part I discuss the nature of the drug problem. This includes a historical review of drug abuse and an indepth examination of drug identification and pharmacology. Social theories of drug abuse and criminality are also considered along with source-country involvement in the drug business. The problems of police corruption and money laundering are addressed as well. The three chapters of Part II, "Gangs and Drugs," examine the relationship between the drug trade and organized crime. A description of the characteristics of organized crime and drug cartels is followed by a detailed analysis of both the international and domestic drug trade with a focus on the roles of both traditional and newly emerging gangs. Part III examines the ways in which the United States is responding to the drug problem. One chapter provides a history of drug control policy in the United States. This includes an examination of drug laws, the roles of drug enforcement agencies, and current suppression tactics. A chapter discusses some unconventional approaches such as drug courier profiling, reverse stings, the use of electronic surveillance, needle exchange programs, drug testing, and the use of drugs in sports. Other chapters discuss the pros and cons of legalizing drugs and drug treatment and prevention. 137 references and a subject index