Drug Abuse Problem in the Southwest

The drug abuse problem continues to persist throughout the nation because of the enormous supply of, and demand for, drugs. This situation has created a multibillion dollar business in which the risks are low relative to the profits that can be made. Drug trafficking attracts people from all walks of life including doctors, lawyers, accountants, businessmen, and entertainers, who see opportunities that far exceed those offered by legitimate business. Drug trafficking and abuse continue to flourish in the Southwest. The gains made against heroin are largely attributed to the success of Mexico's eradication program and to severe droughts. Unfortunately, as heroin availability has declined in the Southwest, the use of other synthetic alternatives has grown dramatically. Improved cooperation and intelligence sharing are important steps toward maximizing the effectiveness of the limited Federal, State, and local law enforcement resources that can be mounted against increasingly sophisticated drug traffickers. However, these measures are not an adequate substitute for the well-integrated, coordinated effort necessary to make maximum advancements with available resources. Such an approach would require State and local agencies to play an active part in defining the overall drug strategy and the role each agency can most effectively play.