NCJ Number
195225
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 42 Issue: 2 Dated: Spring 2002 Pages: 412-432
Date Published
2002
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the United Kingdom's policy of utilizing the criminal justice system to target drug abusers for treatment.
Abstract
The authors of this article review and discuss the ways in which the criminal justice system targets and attempts to treat those persons involved in the use of illicit drugs. The official policy of the United Kingdom has been to identify those persons involved in illicit drug use and to target them for treatment. The rationale behind this approach lies in the assumption that illicit drug use increases criminal activity. Therefore, if drug abusers can be identified and treated, crime rates will decrease. The authors begin their discussion by reviewing the drug treatment programs that are currently implemented within the criminal justice system in England. The point of arrest is the time when most drug abusers are targeted for treatment. In most cases, it is at this point that a police officer identifies the drug problem and provides information on drug treatment programs. The authors discuss the way this transaction generally occurs as well as some new approaches to securing treatment for these individuals. The article then turns to an examination of how the current criminal justice initiatives may be enhanced by changing operational and organizational structures within the system, including an examination of how the transitions from each stage of the criminal justice treatment process can be made more cohesive. The authors also discuss drug treatment programs for inmates, including a look at programs for female inmates and inmates who have mental health problems. References