Drug Task Forces in Colorado: An Evaluation of Multijurisdictional Strategies, Volume II

• NCJ Number: 165127
• Author(s): S K Pullen; M J Mande
• Date Published: 1992
• Length: 103 pages
• Corporate Author: Colorado Division of Criminal Justice
• Sale Source: Colorado Division of Criminal Justice; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: DCC.

Annotation

This report presents the methodology and findings of an evaluation of the activities and performances of five multijurisdictional drug task forces in Colorado that are supported in part by Federal Anti-Drug funds; the study design included both a process and outcome evaluation for each task force.

Abstract

The process evaluation measured program performance by comparing program implementation with program design. The outcome evaluation measured the effectiveness of the program in countering the drug problem. A sample of citizens in each of the task force districts was surveyed regarding perceptions of the drug problem. Respondents agreed that drugs are a problem both in society at large and in their communities. They also perceived that the drug problem is not being adequately addressed. Most wanted to enhance law enforcement efforts, especially by providing for stiffer penalties for drug offenders. According to the data analyzed, alcohol consumption in Colorado, while decreasing, is still above the national average. Also, marijuana use has shown a steady increase over the past decade, and cocaine use has grown quickly. The evaluation notes that the strengths of the task force program are the work of undercover agents, an established information network, an established asset/forfeiture process, and regularly held meetings. Weaknesses identified are a lack of prosecutor involvement in the task force, informal instead of formal interagency agreements and/or lack of policy/procedures manual, and a lack of training requirements for task force officers. The first-year and second-year evaluations identified seven critical elements necessary for effective task- force performance. These are perceived program benefit; commitment and participation by critical decisionmakers; organizational entity; region-appropriate strategy; formal task force participation by the district attorney; formal interagency agreements, policies, and procedures; and training requirements. A 32-item bibliography and appended citizen questionnaire and individual case data collection form