NCJ Number
204358
Date Published
May 2002
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This document discusses the status and outlook of the drug threat to the State of North Dakota.
Abstract
Mexican criminal groups dominate the transportation and wholesale distribution of methamphetamine and marijuana in North Dakota. These groups are also the primary transporters of powdered cocaine and heroin into the State, obtaining their drug supply from drug trafficking organizations and criminal groups based primarily in Mexico. Mexican criminal groups often transport multiple drugs in private vehicles. Methamphetamine is the most significant drug threat and is the drug-related investigative priority for Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials. Treatment admissions to publicly funded facilities for methamphetamine abuse from 1994 through 1999 surpassed admissions for abuse of any other illicit drug except marijuana. Methamphetamine is readily available, and its availability is increasing throughout the State. The number of methamphetamine laboratory seizures has increased since 1998. Marijuana is the drug of choice and the most readily available drug. Treatment admissions to publicly funded facilities for marijuana abuse nearly doubled between 1994 and 1999. Marijuana availability also is increasing throughout the State, leading to corresponding increases in investigations, seizures, and arrests. Other dangerous drugs, including club drugs, hallucinogens, and diverted pharmaceuticals, appeal to a small segment of the population. Abuse of club drugs and hallucinogens occurs primarily in urban areas and is concentrated on high school and college campuses. The diversion and abuse of pharmaceuticals pose a growing threat to North Dakota. The availability and abuse of heroin are limited in this State. Mexican black tar heroin is the primary type available, although Mexican brown powdered heroin is occasionally available.