NCJ Number
118277
Date Published
1989
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This summary provides an overview of the drug problem, as defined by States in their drug control strategies, and describes programs and plans developed by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and the States to address the drug problem.
Abstract
Cocaine continues to represent the fastest growing drug problem. While marijuana remains the drug used by the broadest cross-section of the population, its popularity seems to have peaked. The relation between drugs and crime has been firmly established; localities experiencing high rates of drug use also have high rates of criminal activity. Intravenous drug use is posing an additional challenge for the criminal justice system, as the system struggles to deal with an increasing number of drug abusers who are at high risk for contracting AIDS. Although drug use by high school students has decreased, children nationwide are using drugs at earlier ages. The BJA's strategy to enhance State and local efforts to control drug use and drug-related crime contains five major elements: encourage improved drug control strategies and policies and the targeting of resources to achieve effective drug control; provide State and local criminal justice agencies with state-of-the-art information on innovative and effective programs and techniques; improve the capability of State and local agencies to engage in effective drug control efforts; encourage coordination and cooperation; and assess the impact of programs on the drug problem and the criminal justice system. The BJA focuses on drug demand reduction, drug law enforcement, formula grants to States, drug case prosecution and adjudication, and the rehabilitation and treatment of drug offenders. Major achievements since passage of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act in October 1986 and future challenges for the criminal justice system in controlling drugs are noted.