NCJ Number
203909
Date Published
April 2001
Length
50 pages
Annotation
This report is a strategic assessment that addresses the status and outlook of the drug threat in the State of Massachusetts.
Abstract
Illegal drugs pose a significant threat to the safety and security of Massachusetts’ citizens. Heroin and powdered and crack cocaine are seen as the most serious drug threats in the State due to their highly addictive nature and strong association with violent crime. During 2001, heroin and cocaine are expected to remain the most serious threats to Massachusetts with most transported to the State in privately owned, borrowed, and leased vehicles or by way of public transportation on the interstate. In addition to heroin and cocaine, marijuana use is rampant in Massachusetts even though the drug is regarded as a lower threat because users do not often seek treatment or commit violent crimes. Club drugs, specifically MDMA (i.e. ecstasy) are increasing in Massachusetts. Other “club drugs,” such as GHB and GBL have risen in popularity among adolescents and young adults since 1999. Methamphetamine production and use are not significant threats in Massachusetts. It is recommended that a comprehensive assessment be done to better address the drug situation giving attention to the command-and-control relationships that exist among various drug trafficking contingents. The report is divided into five major chapters: heroin, cocaine, marijuana, other dangerous drugs, and methamphetamine. Information is provided for each on abuse, availability, violence, production, transportation, and distribution. Charts and tables