NCJ Number
154006
Date Published
1993
Length
125 pages
Annotation
A needs assessment was conducted to analyze the nature and extent of drug abuse in Newark, N.J.; the impacts of drug problems; the nature of drug markets and drug dealing in the city; the number, characteristics, and use of drug prevention and treatment programs in 1991-92; and recommended actions for dealing with drug abuse problems in Newark.
Abstract
The analysis focused on 72 blocks in the central city, which was targeted by the Fighting Back project of the Boys' and Girls' Clubs of Newark, the sponsors of the needs assessment. The analysis revealed a consistent pattern of an increasing number of drug-related emergency room episodes, an increase in arrests for drug possession, stable arrests for drug sales, a decline in drug use by high school students, and increasing treatment populations. Economic, social, and health status indicators all indicated that Newark is one of the most troubled communities in the country. Results also indicated that Newark already has many resources for dealing with the problems of drug abuse. However, each law enforcement, prevention, or drug treatment resource is targeted at only a single aspect of the multifaceted problem, little coordination exists among services, and far too few resources are available to meet the treatment and related needs of the indigent chronic drug abuser. Findings also suggest a great need for intervention with high-risk groups such as schoolage youth and women of childbearing age. Finally, the Fighting Back program takes a long-term view and uses a multifaceted approach that focuses on addressing underlying problems in a way that is less bureaucratic and more flexible and sensitive to local needs than many that have preceded it. Tables, charts, footnotes, appended tables and Newark resource lists, and 47 references (Author summary modified)