Reference no: EM133666916
Assignment:
Do you agree and why? Provide references to support your opinion?
Exploring the connection between drugs and crime in the United States is a complex issue that has generated significant discussion among criminologists. This issue is influenced by socio-economic inequalities, drug availability, and drug control policies. In my view, socio-economic inequalities and the current punitive approach to drug offenses both significantly contribute to worsening the issues related to drugs and crime.
Higher rates of drug abuse and related criminal behavior are linked to socio-economic inequalities. Individuals in disadvantaged communities may resort to drugs as a coping mechanism or as part of an economic strategy to escape poverty (Clear, Reisig, & Cole, 2013). Furthermore, the approach taken by the United States to combating drugs, which emphasizes criminalization and imprisonment, has not succeeded in substantially decreasing drug consumption. Instead, it has resulted in elevated incarceration rates, particularly impacting minority groups (Alexander, 2012).
An improved approach to drug control would focus on decriminalization, treatment, and prevention. Portugal decriminalized all drugs in 2001 and shifted focus to treatment and harm reduction. This approach has led to promising results, such as reduced rates of drug-related deaths, HIV infection rates, and drug-related crimes (Greenwald, 2009). Implementing a similar approach in the United States may help ease the strain on the criminal justice system, lessen the negative perception of drug use, and provide better and more compassionate solutions for those dealing with addiction.
Moreover, by investing in education, job training, and community programs, we can tackle some of the socio-economic factors contributing to drug abuse. Supporting individuals in disadvantaged communities could help decrease the allure of drugs and drug-related crimes.
To address the problem of drugs and crime in the United States, it is essential to move away from strict punishment towards a holistic strategy involving decriminalization, treatment, prevention, and socio-economic interventions. Such a strategy, supported by evidence from other countries, could lead to more effective control of drug-related problems and a reduction in associated criminal activities.
References:
Drug Decriminalization in Portugal: Lessons for Creating Fair and Successful Drug Policies | Office of Justice Programs. (n.d.).
New Jim Crow - Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness | Office of Justice Programs. (n.d.).
Justice, R., & Justice, R. JACOB ALDRIDGE A LOOK INTO THE UNITED STATES PRISON SYSTEMI.