Rising Methamphetamine Use Fuels Crime Among Detainees in Australia

The Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) has published a significant report revealing a troubling link between illicit drug use, particularly methamphetamine, and crime among detainees. The study, which involved interviews with 2,249 police detainees, found that nearly half attributed their offending behaviors to recent drug or alcohol use.

The data highlights a concerning trend: over 84% of those interviewed reported using some form of substance within the past month. According to Dr. Rick Brown, Deputy Director of the AIC, “It is clear that the majority of detainees attributed drug and alcohol use to altering their behavior, resulting in their offending.”

Shifting Trends in Substance Use

The report indicates a shift in the types of substances influencing criminal behavior. Since 2009, the percentage of detainees attributing their offenses to alcohol has dropped by 13%, while methamphetamine use has surged by 22% during the same period. Additionally, the study found that the impact of heroin and ecstasy on criminal behavior has also declined.

Dr. Brown emphasized the gravity of the findings, stating, “More than 150,000 offenses in Australia were attributable to illicit drug and alcohol use, which highlights the importance of demand reduction programs.” He suggested that these programs should be integrated with targeted efforts to reduce supply.

The increase in methamphetamine use is particularly alarming, given its association with violent and aggressive behavior. The report urges policymakers to consider these findings when developing strategies to combat drug-related crime.

Call for Action

The AIC’s findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing drug use and its consequences on society. With a significant portion of detainees reporting recent substance use, there is an urgent need for effective intervention programs.

Dr. Brown’s remarks reflect a growing concern among law enforcement and public health officials about the rising influence of methamphetamine in the criminal landscape. As Australia grapples with these challenges, the urgency for coordinated responses becomes increasingly clear.

The report serves as a crucial resource for understanding the dynamics of drug use and crime, providing evidence that can guide future initiatives aimed at reducing both demand and supply of illicit substances in Australia.

For further details, the study is titled “The extent of illicit drug and alcohol involvement in crime: An updated estimate,” authored by Alexandra Voce and colleagues, and is accessible through the DOI: 10.52922/ti78090.