NCJ Number
204696
Date Published
October 2002
Length
38 pages
Annotation
This strategic assessment addresses the status and outlook of the drug threat in Oklahoma.
Abstract
The analysis of the threat posed by each drug type or category is based on the most current quantitative and qualitative information on availability, demand, product or cultivation, transportation, and distribution, as well as the effects of a particular drug on abusers and society as a whole. Oklahoma is a destination and transit area for shipments of methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and heroin for Mexico, California, and Southwestern States. Methamphetamine, which is the greatest drug threat to Oklahoma, is available throughout the State, and abuse of the drug is increasing. Violence linked to the production, distribution, and abuse of this drug poses a significant threat to the safety of Oklahomans. Methamphetamine production is increasing in the State, and laboratory seizures increased significantly from 1995 through 2001. Cocaine continues to constitute a significant threat to Oklahoma. Cocaine abuse is prevalent in the State, and abuse among youth is a particular concern. Marijuana is readily available and commonly used throughout the State. Most of the marijuana available in the State is produced in Mexico; however, locally grown, higher potency marijuana is also available. Mexican drug trafficking organizations use Oklahoma as a transshipment point for marijuana because of the State's central location, well-developed transportation infrastructure, and proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border. Heroin is available primarily in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, and the abuse of heroin is a concern for law enforcement agencies and health-care professionals. Mexican black tar heroin is the most prevalent and abused type in the State. Other dangerous drugs available and abused in the State include club drugs, hallucinogens, inhalants, steroids, and diverted pharmaceuticals. The report concludes that methamphetamine will continue to pose the greatest illicit drug threat in Oklahoma. Cocaine will remain a significant threat, and marijuana will continue to be the most widely abused drug in the State. Mexican black tar heroin will remain the dominant type of heroin available in the State. Other dangerous drugs, primarily club drugs such as MDMA, GHB, LSD, ketamine, and PCP, likely will gain in popularity in the State particularly among young adults and teens in urban areas and college towns. 1 table, 1 chart, and a list of sources