NCJ Number
126335
Date Published
1990
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Although the enactment of the Drug Enforcement Administration's Model Drug Paraphernalia Act by 38 states and the District of Columbia has significantly reduced the number of "Head shops" in operation and the ready availability of hard-core drug paraphernalia, many problems still inhibit the enforcement of anti-paraphernalia laws.
Abstract
The Model Act focuses on the intent of the paraphernalia manufacturer, seller, or user, because the objects involved may be common household items or used mainly for legal purposes. The most important factor limiting the enforcement of the paraphernalia laws is the shortage of police and prosecutorial resources. Without adequate resources, low-priority laws such as anti-paraphernalia laws are not enforced. Drug paraphernalia enforcement often receives the lowest drug enforcement priority because the investigations and prosecutions are expensive, are complex, and require special knowledge. Thus, until police and prosecutors are given resources and training to enforce all drug laws, the main purpose of drug papaphernalia laws will be to symbolize society's rejection of the drug culture. 22 reference notes