NCJ Number
203870
Date Published
March 2003
Length
38 pages
Annotation
This report describes the status and outlook of the drug threat to Kansas.
Abstract
The production, distribution, and abuse of illicit drugs pose significant problems for Kansas. Mexican crime groups dominate the transportation and distribution of drugs in the State. Other drug distributors in Kansas include local independent dealers, street gangs, and outlaw motorcycle gangs. Among the most prevalent drugs in Kansas are methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana. Following an executive summary and an overview of the drug threat to Kansas, each chapter presents an overview of the five most salient drug threats to the State, offering information on the rate of local abuse; local availability; violence associated with the drug; and the production, transportation, and distribution of the drug. Methamphetamine presents the most significant threat to Kansas, particularly because its available throughout the State and its correlation to violence and environmental harm. The number of methamphetamine-related treatment admissions increased from 997 in 1997 to 1,160 in 2001. One of the most serious concerns of law enforcement is the potential for methamphetamine-related violence. Both its use, which can make a user paranoid and delusional, and its distribution by street gangs create opportunities for violence. Cocaine represents another significant threat to Kansas; powdered cocaine is readily available throughout the State and crack cocaine is available in urban areas. Crack cocaine is the drug most often associated with violence in Kansas, mainly in inner-city neighborhoods and housing projects. The number of treatment admissions for cocaine-related emergencies increased from 2,189 in 1997 to 2,279 in 2001. Marijuana is the most widely available and most frequently abused drug in the State. The number of marijuana treatment admissions increased from 2,569 in 1997 to 3,477 in 2001. Most marijuana available in Kansas is produced in Mexico, although there are some local cultivators. Other dangerous drugs posing a threat to Kansas include MDMA, GHB, LSD, and diverted pharmaceuticals. These other drugs are becoming increasingly available in cities with colleges. Heroin poses a low threat to Kansas. In 1997 there were 79 treatment admissions for heroin-related emergencies and 75 in 2001. Heroin from Mexico is available on a limited basis in the State’s metropolitan areas. Predictions on the future outlook for the drug threat to Kansas are offered. Map, tables, charts, sources