NCJ Number
114107
Date Published
1988
Length
10 pages
Annotation
The director of the National Institute of Justice discusses the growing awareness of drugs as a multifaceted problem, not merely a law enforcement problem.
Abstract
As drugs are big business, there is a need to disrupt drug markets and reduce retailers' profits. Drugs are a public health problem requiring treatment and prevention strategies. Drugs are an educational issue -- schools must help teach children who are vulnerable to the seductions of drug pushers. Drugs are a family problem requiring appropriate parental example and guidance. Drugs also are a personal and moral issue. Finally, drugs are a community problem, because where drug markets operate, residents are demoralized and the quality of life and life itself are threatended. Realization of the multifaceted nature of the drug problem has contributed to increases in local leadership and local partnerships. For years, police fought almost alone against drugs, while prosecutors and the public took a more relaxed attitude toward what was perceived as a victimless crime. Public opinion now is changing. The dark side of drug use has become more apparent, as have the high costs of the drug problem. This change in attitude provides a good opportunity for police to get back into the community and build partnerships. National Institute of Justice initiatives focusing on the development of such partnerships to combat drugs are listed.