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There is a lot of concern about the ways in which drug use causes crime. Drugs and crime are linked in a number of ways.

Certain drugs are controlled by the law and people who have these drugs in their possession, use them or supply them to other people are committing a criminal offence.

Some people who use drugs heavily or are dependent on them commit crimes such as theft, burglary, fraud and shoplifting to get goods which they then trade for money to buy drugs.Some people become violent and commit criminal offences against people and property whilst under the influence of drugs.Violence has also occurred among drug dealers who may clash with rival gangs or the police or be violent towards drug users who owe them money.

Driving offences are committed where people are under the influence of drugs.


This project involves looking at the way drugs and crime are related for alcohol and heroin.

First think about the way alcohol and heroin use may be related to crime. List all your ideas in note form in your project book.

Next find out some more information about the ways in which alcohol and heroin are related to crime. You could:

	Ask other people how they think alcohol and heroin use are related to crime. You might discuss this with fellow students, teachers, your parents, other adults etc.
	If possible discuss the issue with local police officers. Your school or college may have a police liaison officer whom you could discuss it with.

Remember to keep a note of what you find out and what other people say. Write a report about what you have found out. Also write about:

	Which drug - alcohol or heroin - do you think causes most crime?
	What sort of people commit the crimes and are victims of the crimes?
	What other things contribute to drug-related crime? For example, what role do poverty and unemployment play?
	What measures are being taken in your area to combat drug-related crime?
	What do you think should be done about drug-related crime?

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