NCJ Number
238052
Journal
Justice Research and Policy Volume: 1 Issue: 13 Dated: 2011 Pages: 23-44
Date Published
2011
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article documents the process of the New Orleans drug market reconstitution that occurred 2005-2008.
Abstract
Hurricane Katrina accomplished what no law enforcement initiative could ever achieve: It completely eradicated the New Orleans drug market. However, Katrina did little to eliminate the demand for drugs. This article documents the process of the drug market reconstitution that occurred 2005-2008 based on in-depth interviews and focus groups with predominately low-income drug users and sellers. Before Katrina, the drug market was largely characterized by socially-bonded participants involved with corporate style distribution. After Katrina, a violent freelance market emerged. The conclusion draws recommendations for law enforcement for dealing with drug markets after a major disaster. (Published Abstract)