NCJ Number
115929
Date Published
Unknown
Length
121 pages
Annotation
This 1987 study examined the dynamics of heroin buying and selling and its implications for law enforcement through interviews with 143 known, active and regular heroin sellers/users in Sydney, Australia, and through information collected from a number of drug law enforcement agencies.
Abstract
The typical user/seller was male, single, a school dropout, unemployed or on a pension, and aged in the 20's. Most used other illicit drugs, had been incarcerated as juveniles, had committed at least one episode of property crime, and had been convicted at least once of a crime (usually property or drug). Over a 7-day period, respondents spent an average of $4,481.82 on heroin, had sold heroin with a reported average value of $4,526.12, had an average of 14 customers, and usually sold heroin in $50 to $150 deals. A majority bought heroin from only one, full-time supplier and took special precautions to avoid being caught dealing. With respect to distribution networks, it is estimated that for amounts of a kilogram or more, heroin will pass through five levels before reaching the street. These include the importer, wholesaler, ounce dealer, user/dealer, and small-time user dealer. While profits are substantial at the top three levels, user/dealers usually only break even because profits are used primarily for further drug purchase and use. Drug law enforcement and intervention implications are discussed. 85 tables, 4 figures and 24 references.