NCJ Number
160030
Editor(s)
K L Swisher
Date Published
1996
Length
128 pages
Annotation
Since the 1960's when the use of illegal drugs became more culturally acceptable, public policy experts in the United States have attempted to address several problems they believe result from the sale and use of drugs, and some experts believe drug legalization may be a more effective approach than strict law enforcement.
Abstract
Proponents of drug legalization include public policy experts and health care professionals who argue that a new solution is necessary since strict law enforcement is not effective. Further, proponents of drug legalization contend that strict law enforcement has had a negative effect on the drug situation by driving up drug prices significantly and inducing international drug cartels and urban street gangs alike to participate in drug trafficking. Both cartels and street gangs are well-armed and commonly use assassinations to eliminate rivals and gain territory for drug sales. Proponents of drug legalization also believe that strict drug law enforcement has labeled drug users and addicts as criminals and has prevented many from seeking help due to fear of arrest and prosecution. They cite several benefits of drug legalization: (1) drug legalization will drastically reduce profits associated with the illegal drug trade; (2) international drug cartels and urban street gangs will no longer be drawn to the high profits from drug sales; (3) drug legalization will reduce the violence associated with international and local turf wars; (4) drug legalization will clear overcrowded courts and jails because most people arrested for drug possession and sale will no longer enter the criminal justice system; and (5) the money saved in law enforcement and legal costs will support drug abuse prevention programs for children, help urban teenagers find productive employment, and fund drug treatment programs for addicts. Opponents of drug legalization argue that the drug problem will become immeasurably worse; for example, the number of drug users will increase, drug abusers will be able to obtain drugs more cheaply and easily, and drug addiction will increase. References and notes