NCJ Number
85959
Date Published
1980
Length
170 pages
Annotation
Testimony by criminal justice professionals, legislators, and others documents the extent of the problem of illicit methamphetamine laboratories in Pennsylvania/New Jersey/Delaware area. Law enforcement issues are addressed and legislative proposals offered.
Abstract
Testimony at this Philadelphia hearing of the House Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control documents the increase in illicit laboratories that manufacture methamphetamine ('speed'). The involvement of motorcycle gangs in this illicit manufacturing of drugs is cited as a particular problem, and it is indicated that these gangs have ties to organized crime. Although Federal law mandates that chemical suppliers report any unusual purchases of chemicals used in the manufacture of methamphetamine, offenders have succeeded in purchasing these chemicals from foreign suppliers. Efforts are underway to increase law enforcement liaison with these foreign suppliers and monitor imports from these suppliers. The recidivism of illicit drug manufacturers is noted to be a particular problem. The average sentence served by a manufacturer is 3.5 years in prison. Harsher sentences are recommended or the more frequent use of the maximum Federal sentence of 5 years. The targeting of motorcyle gangs for intelligence work and Federal strike force activity is also recommended. Prepared statements are included.