Rock and a Hard Place: Drug Markets in Deprived Neighbourhoods

• NCJ Number: 196111
• Author(s): Ruth Lupton; Andrew Wilson; Tiggey May; Hamish Warburton; Paul J. Turnbull
• Date Published: 2002
• Length: 92 pages
• Sale Source: Great Britain Home Office Research Development and Statistics Directorate
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom
• Note: Home Office Research Study 240; downloaded July 2, 2002.

Annotation

This report discusses heroin and crack cocaine retail drug markets in deprived residential neighborhoods in England.

Abstract

Focusing on eight deprived residential neighborhoods in England, this report discusses the heroin and crack cocaine retail drug markets that make it challenging to regenerate these neighborhoods. Arguing that tackling these drug markets is necessary in order to revitalize these neighborhoods, this report presents the findings of a study of retail drug markets in eight neighborhoods in six different regions, undertaken in 2000 and 2001. After discussing the negative impacts of neighborhood drug markets in causing drug-related anti-social and criminal behavior, the authors describe the neighborhoods selected in this study, the use of semi-structured interviews with neighborhood locals, and profiles of local drug users. Through a series of charts and graphs, the authors describe the unemployment, poor literacy rates, and low incomes of neighborhood residents that make retail drug markets attractive to residents. Following a presentation of the ethnic composition of the neighborhoods and types of local housing, this report details the price, availability, and distribution system of the retail drug market, including how drug transactions are conducted. Focusing on the impact of retail drug markets on the various neighborhoods, the authors argue that increased crime, violence, prevalence of discarded needles, and attractiveness of the market to young people are prime reasons for needing to eliminate neighborhood drug markets. Suggesting that drug supplies must be reduced by increased policing and that drug distribution must be decreased by drug education in schools, this report argues for co-coordinated strategies through a Neighborhood Renewal Strategy. A summary of area-based policies and “Home Office” newsletters follow the authors’ detailed recommendations for increasing policing, drug education programs, and drug treatment programs.