NCJ Number
123358
Journal
World Policy Journal Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter 1989-90) Pages: 135-163
Date Published
1990
Length
29 pages
Annotation
The current emphasis on a punitive law enforcement approach to the drug problem in the United States is failing to solve the problem and is increasing the pressures that undermine our democratic institutions, values, and practices.
Abstract
The public regards the drug problem as a crisis, and President Bush's statements and actions have both reinforced and reflected this mood. The National Drug Control Strategy focuses on arrests, based on the view that drugs must be made difficult or expensive to obtain if use is to decline. This law enforcement approach enjoys support across the political spectrum. However, it threatens basic liberties, encourages the abuse of official power, risks eroding respect for the law and the police, and threatens to stigmatize many ordinary people as criminals. However, it is unlikely to affect supply significantly and instead will heighten criminal incentive. It is also likely to hinder treatment by channeling resources to punitive measures and by stigmatizing those in need of care. Drug law enforcement should continue, but it should not be the central feature of the nation's response to a complex socioeconomic and political problem. A more successful approach would include not only drug education and treatment, but also attention to the conditions that have led to drug abuse. 80 reference notes.