Drugs and crime have been linked since the early twentieth century, with the criminalisation of substances such as cocaine, heroin and marijuana leading to an increase in drug-related offences. In recent decades, this connection has only become more entrenched as addiction rates rise and drug use continues to be associated with a range of different crimes. From drug trafficking networks to youth gang violence or petty theft, understanding the extent and scope of the link between drugs and crime is essential for formulating effective policy responses.

At its most basic level, there is a direct causal relationship between illegal drugs and crime: those who use illicit drugs will often commit offences in order to obtain money to buy them. This can take many forms – from stealing items that can be quickly sold on for cash (known as ‘acquisitive’ crimes) through to engaging in more serious acts like armed robbery or drug trafficking itself. It’s also important not to overlook how organised criminal groups may exploit people addicted to drugs by forcing them into activities such as selling narcotics or laundering money – all under threat of extreme physical violence.