NCJ Number
126117
Date Published
1990
Length
24 pages
Annotation
Officials of the criminal justice system in Portland, Maine, are concerned with what they consider to be a significant increase in illegal drug activity.
Abstract
To assess the extent of the drug problem, interviews were conducted with individuals at the State and local level and available data were evaluated. Information was provided by law enforcement officers, corrections and probation officials, substance abuse counselors, a superior court justice, and the president of the Maine Police Chiefs Association. The objective was to evaluate drug crime and violence and local efforts to combat the problem. It was determined that cocaine is the primary drug of choice in Maine but that heroin and LSD use is increasing. Many of those interviewed believe that the increase in drug use is responsible for an increase in other crimes, especially property crimes. Officials also believe that drug crimes have worsened an already serious overcrowding situation in corrections facilities. To combat drug crimes on a statewide basis, Maine has legislated a coordinated effort of Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials and criminal prosecutors. Local enforcement efforts are also continuing. Appendixes contain supplemental data on illegal drug use, arrests, and seizures. 9 tables and 4 figures