Increasing data on the link between drug use and crimes

On Behalf of | Oct 23, 2021 | Criminal Defense |

The War on Drugs continues to be fought mainly between drug users and law enforcers in Alabama. There is clear evidence that people who use recreational drugs often engage in criminal activities to support their lifestyle. Certain crimes will always be connected to drug use, even as the rates of crime rise or fall in the U.S.

Drugs are correlated to crime

Young and middle-aged adults who use cannabis, cocaine and other recreational drugs are more likely to commit crimes than those who do not use drugs, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) National Household Survey on Drug Abuse. These crimes include possessing, selling or distributing drugs and other acts, such as murder or armed robbery, to obtain drugs illegally.

Theft is common among drug users who steal personal items to sell for money to buy drugs. Driving under the influence is another crime that is committed only by substance users. However, the study concludes that the data is still unclear as to the extent that drugs influence crime.

What happens after a drug violation

Drug violations are legal problems that are often dealt with in court. Drug offenders often must turn to legal representatives for help to reduce a prison sentence, appear at a court hearing, make arrangements for rehab and other actions. A criminal defense lawyer is often the first and most important professional to speak to when resolving a drug violation.

What the drug data proves

Prescription drug abuse and fraud is the newest trend in crime nowadays. Whether the drugs are prescribed legally or illegally, people will resort to illegal methods to support their habit. For many more decades, crime statistics will continue to show that using drugs increases the risks of committing crimes.