NCJ Number
113133
Date Published
1988
Length
104 pages
Annotation
Statements, letters, and supplemental materials from representatives of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), police departments, housing authorities, and other public and private agencies discuss the impact of drug abuse on public housing and the effectiveness of efforts to combat it.
Abstract
Testimony by residents and others shows how widespread drug abuse and drug trafficking in housing projects has resulted in high crime rates, loss of tenant safety and security, and a low quality of life in general. Programs aimed at combatting the problem are described. These include a drug-free neighborhood initiative that emphasizes community involvement in drug abuse prevention programming undertaken by the National Association of Neighborhoods. The Oasis program, another effort, focuses on involving project residents in creating new community standards and devising solutions for the day-to-day, individualized concerns of the residents. The Drug Enforcement Administration has concentrated efforts on reducing both the supply and demand aspects of the drug problem. It also provides intelligence information and is actively involved with State and local authorities, serving in leadership, coordination, and participant capacities. HUD has sponsored regional conferences on drug problems in public housing and has provided funding for physical (e.g., security systems, lighting, improved defensible space) and management (e.g., training, computer systems) improvements aimed at combatting drug use and trafficking. The New York City Housing Authority Police efforts include vertical patrols, arrests of street level peddlers and clients, searches, and community education and relations activities.