NCJ Number
137399
Date Published
1992
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Based on a review of relevant research literature, this study profiles juvenile crack dealing and dealers as well as juvenile court programs for juvenile drug dealers.
Abstract
This research focuses on street-level crack dealing by young, inner-city males as crack is the drug of choice for inner-city dealers and users. Research findings indicate that, contrary to a popular perception, in most cities juvenile gangs are tangential to drug operations. Findings indicate that drug dealing by juveniles is a common occurrence conducted by a diverse criminal population that is difficult to target. There is discrepancy in the research as to whether juvenile drug dealers are generally drug users. Those who move up in the ranks of organized drug enterprises cannot be heavy drug users. A relationship between drug dealing and other delinquent activity is found in some populations and not in others. The study concludes that because juvenile drug dealers exhibit a variety of characteristics, a variety of individualized responses are needed for this population. It is thus essential that research evaluate the effectiveness of various program strategies and identify the criteria for successful program interventions for a variety of adolescent drug dealing behaviors. The study further concludes that the juvenile courts, compared to adult criminal courts, are best able to administer such a diverse assessment and treatment regime. 25 references and descriptions of four programs for juvenile drug dealers