NCJ Number
162535
Journal
Drug and Alcohol Review Volume: 14 Dated: (1995) Pages: 317-322
Date Published
1995
Length
6 pages
Annotation
New drug law enforcement activities in Great Britain emphasize the importance of a multisectoral approach that operates at both national and local levels and aims to reduce drug-related crime, reduce the acceptability and availability of illicit drugs, and reduce the demand through school-based drug education and other means.
Abstract
The drug problem is likely to increase in the future. Legalization and decriminalization must be rejected, and more effective responses by law enforcement and the community are needed. Harm reduction requires a commitment to close collaboration between the police and drug treatment programs to maximize the effectiveness of needle exchange programs and other harm reduction approaches. The warnings now commonly used in Great Britain for selected minor drug law offenses have several benefits, including reducing criminal justice costs. Greater emphasis is needed on diversion programs that involve close links between police and drug treatment programs. Future progress requires commitments to providing adequate and effective drug treatment, research to develop and evaluate more effective diversion programs, improved collaboration between sectors, and effective leadership. The major costs to the community and the huge costs to individuals must remain a major impetus to the effort to develop more effective responses to the problems resulting from illegal drugs. 5 references (Author abstract modified)