NCJ Number
165277
Date Published
1993
Length
39 pages
Annotation
The Statewide Narcotics Task Force (SNTF) established in Hawaii in 1988 was evaluated with respect to its operations and effectiveness.
Abstract
Information was collected by means of interviews with SNTF project personnel and agencies affected by SNTF activities, together with a review of annual project reports and the Task Force Commanders Survey. Results revealed that the SNTF has made a positive impact on the State's drug reduction efforts. Law enforcement's recognition of drug law offenses as a multijurisdictional, statewide problem was a major step toward the high degree of interagency cooperation in the SNTF interdiction program. In addition, this cooperation has improved communications among law enforcement agencies, county and Federal agencies, and sometimes private industry. Training has taken place at all levels of police agencies as a major component of this communication network and has provided consistent and current information on interdiction procedures. Finally, the arrests and resulting court proceedings have led to the development of case law relating to drug interdiction procedures. The SNTF has demonstrated a level of productivity and effectiveness that merit continuation of its interdiction efforts and should explore funding beyond the current Federal funding to ensure continuing progress. Tables and appended figures and tables