NCJ Number
204353
Date Published
May 2001
Length
50 pages
Annotation
This document presents the status and outlook of the drug threat in the State of New Jersey.
Abstract
The distribution and use of illegal drugs continue to pose a serious threat to the safety and security of citizens. Powdered cocaine and crack cocaine are readily available and are associated with more violent crime than any other drug, making cocaine the State’s primary drug threat. Colombian drug trafficking organizations are the dominant cocaine suppliers for New Jersey-based criminal groups. Low cost, high purity heroin is nearly as serious a threat. The user population is younger and using the high-purity drug increases health risks. Heroin may surpass cocaine as the primary drug threat; it already has in some areas of the State. New Jersey has one of the highest rates of treatment for heroin use in the Nation, a high death rate, and a user population that has expanded to include young, middle-class individuals. Marijuana is the most prevalent drug and abuse is high, particularly among teenagers and young adults. Law enforcement officers seized over 37,000 tons of the drug between 1995 and 1999. The production and use of methamphetamine are a growing concern for law enforcement officials since users have a propensity toward violence. The availability of other dangerous drugs, particularly MDMA and GHB associated with rave parties, is rapidly increasing. These drugs are commonly available at raves, nightclubs, and on college campuses. Pharmaceutical diversion of drugs such as Adderall, Dexedrine, Ritalin, and most recently OxyContin, is a developing threat, and law enforcement officials report that pharmaceutical diversion is a lucrative business. Money laundering continues to be a major problem. Drug proceeds, particularly from cocaine and heroin, historically have been laundered in New Jersey.