Drugs and crime - Philip Bean

Britain has a massive drug problem, and a high proportion of crimes committed are drugs-related. Attempts to talk away the problem, for example, through legalising cannabis, do not face up to the main question, nor would they reduce its use or remove the illicit suppliers. Whilst we can choose the types of controls, we cannot choose whether or not to have a drug problem. This book addresses a range of issues associated with drugs-related crime, providing an authoritative and highly accessible introduction to the subject. It focuses on drug markets, violence within those markets, policing, and the use of coercive treatment through the criminal justice system. A central theme of the book is on ways and means of reducing the supply of drugs on both international and national levels. Essential reading for anybody with an interest in drugs and crime, and a much needed text for students studying the subject. This updated new edition takes full account of developments since 2001, extends its coverage to Scotland and Ireland, and includes a wholly new chapter on theoretical debates surrounding the drugs and crime issue.