NCJ Number
162167
Date Published
1985
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the different ways that HLS (expansion not provided) men support their heroin habits, their unique problems, the implications of these lifestyles on the image of the heroin user and his criminality, and on public policy, especially toward crime and treatment.
Abstract
Heroin users may specialize in one way of raising money, but diversity and flexibility, rather than specialization, are requisites for survival and most of the HLS men are skilled opportunists. Heroin users generally favor an activity in which their knowledge, skills, and contacts make it easier to generate money, including: stealing, street-level drug dealing, conning women, forging prescriptions, and legitimate work. Among the problems faced by hustlers are: citizens' preventive measures such as home security devices; antishoplifting devices; police officers; and undercover agents. Heroin use is not the root of the social and economic patterns and ills of the user and the community; it is the other way around. Social and economic factors on the larger scene create and perpetuate the hustling which, in turn, is integrated into the social and economic fabric of ghetto life and the heroin lifestyle. Enlightened public policy and effective treatment must realize that hustling and heroin use exist as integral parts of lifestyles that are socially shaped and economically driven. Note, references