NCJ Number
83708
Date Published
1981
Length
41 pages
Annotation
Although public inebriacy remains a national problem costing millions of dollars annually, it has been given low priority by all levels of Government and by the alcoholism treatment community. The practice of jailing public inebriates should be ended, and a more rational, effective, grassroots program for their care should be developed.
Abstract
To achieve this end, planners should expand the existing body of knowledge on the public inebriate, compile and disseminate information on successful programs, and develop intergovernmental solutions to the problem. All communities should have programs to serve the public inebriate. Intervention in the life of the inebriate is appropriate where there is a threat to life. Solutions to the problem will require cooperation among many constituencies; all levels of Government have the responsibility to commit funds toward solving the problem. Detoxification alone is not the complete solution; a range of services must be provided. Most States have failed to consider the cost savings to the criminal justice system that would result from addressing the need effectively. Conference participants recommend better coordination and communication between criminal justice and health professionals, development of a model programs manual, and creation of the position of national public inebriate specialist. Photographs and 28 references are provided. Conference materials are appended. (Author summary modified)