NCJ Number
143706
Date Published
1992
Length
176 pages
Annotation
The Monroe County Bar Association Committee to Study the Impact of Substance Use on the Criminal Justice System in Monroe County, New York was appointed in 1991. It was formed as a result of increasing awareness by both national and local bar associations of the need to investigate the impact of the drug crisis on the judicial system.
Abstract
The committee evaluated several components of the judicial system, including law enforcement, prosecution and defense policies and resources. It also evaluated courts, dispositions and available treatment services, and individuals in the community. The committee obtained statistical information on the criminal justice system in Monroe County, interviewed individuals and representatives from community and government agencies. Furthermore, it conducted open public hearings, and contacted the American Bar Association to obtain additional information on the impact of drug abuse on courts. The committee found that crime rates in Monroe County were lower in 1991 than in 1980, although total arrests increased dramatically over the period. The increase in arrests was accompanied by a large increase in local criminal justice expenditures. Between 1980 and 1991, arrests for drug offenses grew faster than arrests for any other offense; arrests for drug possession accounted for most drug arrests. The committee also found that existing policies on drug abuse have failed to deter the damaging effects of drugs. More than $10 million is expended annually in Monroe County for drug and alcohol treatment, but there is no systematic and uniform evaluation of treatment services. Further, drug abuse programs have not provided timely evaluation or treatment services and have not reached the disadvantaged and minorities. The committee also believes that incarceration will not solve the problem of drug abuse. In an effort to improve the handling and treatment of drug offenders in Monroe County, the committee recommended that advocacy issues and program changes should emphasize prevention and education. The report also contains tables and charts.