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Drug Users: Is it Better for Virginia to Treat or to Punish?
Drugs and drug crimes are a powerful force in the underground of our society. Officials have struggled with the best way to combat drug use, but there seems to be a trend towards treatment, rather than incarceration.
October 26, 2011 /Law and Legal PR News/ -- Drug Users: Is it Better for Virginia to Treat or to Punish?
There has been a debate in our country for many years: whether it would be more beneficial to treat drug abusers, rather than invoke harsh penalties upon them. The answer probably lies somewhere in the middle, but America has been trending towards providing drug users with rehabilitation and treatment programs, rather than maximum jail sentences, especially as prisons have struggled with operating above their capacities.
One main reason for this debate is drug addicts typically find themselves locked in an unending circle of doing drugs, getting arrested and repeatedly winding up in a detention facility. Authorities are hoping to end drug crime recidivism and compel people to become contributing members of society.
Money Saving Endeavor
Fox News reports that the United States has spent over $1 trillion dollars on the "War on Drugs" since Nixon first coined the phrase in 1971. This total includes money spent patrolling the border with Mexico, prosecuting offenders, jailing them and funding drug educational programs. Therefore, it is clear something needs to change as drug crimes are as prevalent as ever.
This is why proponents of treatment programs argue that addressing the underlying cause of drug crimes -- an offender's addiction -- is better than supporting a system that provokes recidivism. Virginia could save significant amounts by avoiding traditional costs and diverting those resources to treatment facilities. This benefits not only the addict, but society as a whole.
The Prevalence of Drug Crimes
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration reports that it made 30,922 drug related arrests in 2010. This is a staggering number. However, these numbers do not tell the whole story -- crimes such as theft, burglary, assault or battery often occur because users are trying to support their drug habit. Luckily, it is possible that the frequency of these crimes will be reduced by properly treating drug users.
As a result, some Virginia prosecutors are notoriously strict when charging drug offenders who are caught possessing an illegal drug (including illegal prescriptions), who intend to distribute, as well as those who manufacture illegal drugs.
Regardless if someone is charged with a misdemeanor drug crime or a felony, he or she must have experienced criminal defense representation. Anyone facing drug charges should speak with a qualified drug crime attorney immediately to defend their rights and legal options.
Article provided by Attorney at Law Mark K Tyndall
Visit us at www.virginiadefenselaw.com
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