DRUGS AND JUSTICE - THE IMPACT OF DRUGS ON CRIMINAL-JUSTICE IN A METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY

This study examines the impact of drugs on the criminal justice system of the greater Rochester(New York) metropolitan area. Although discussed widely there has been little investigation of the effects of the ''war on drugs'' at the local level. This research considers patterns of arrest and case processing and includes an examination of drug treatment. Increases in arrests, particular for possession of drugs. have occurred in the city but not the suburbs and have had a disproportionate effect on African-Americans Many cases am processed as misdemeanors and result in minor sanctions. The implications for traditional order maintenance concerns in a metropolitan community are discussed.