NCJ Number
217517
Date Published
December 2006
Length
70 pages
Annotation
This report provides a profile of the Queensland amphetamine market, focusing on amphetamine demand and supply, and issues relevant to those working in the illicit drug field, as well as those developing effective illicit drug interventions.
Abstract
Report highlights include: (1) amphetamines are one of the most common illicit drugs used by Queenslanders; (2) the majority of users identify themselves as recreational/casual amphetamine users; (30 the distribution of amphetamines generally occurs in a closed market, emphasizing the use of trusted social networks; (4) the most readily available types of amphetamines are speed powder and base; (5) a range of risk factors, such as adverse physical and mental health, exposure to blood-borne viruses, experience of violence and participation in crime; (6) a reasonable level of police activity was identified in the amphetamine market; and (7) law enforcement strategies do affect the dynamics of the market. Key messages for law enforcement in the report encompass: concerns about the harmful outcomes associated with amphetamine use, the need for effective demand-reduction strategies, the increased use of ice, the value and limitations of supply-reduction strategies, the importance of maintaining an integrated and responsive approach to amphetamine use, and the need to evaluate interventions and continue research. The increased use of amphetamines in Australia over the past 15 years is a growing concern to both health and law enforcement agencies. Funded by the National Drug Strategy Law Enforcement Funding Committee of the Queensland Police Service, this report attempts to profile the characteristics of Queensland amphetamine users, reveal amphetamine users’ perceptions of law enforcement, and assess the impact of law enforcement activity and strategies for intervention and prevention of illicit drug use. Data were obtained from the Amphetamines in Queensland (AIQ) research project. The project involved a 2002 statewide survey of 665 current amphetamine users about several issues, including demand and supply characteristics, risk factors that might contribute to involvement with amphetamines, the harms associated with the use of the drug, and users’ attitudes towards law enforcement interventions. Tables, graphs, appendix and references