Department of Public Safety
Releases Drug Prevalence Findings
JEFFERSON CITY, March 28, 2007-Gov. Matt Blunt’s
Department of Public Safety today released a report on Missourian’s
opinions regarding illicit drugs.
The report details findings of the 2006 Missouri Department
of Public Safety, Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Program’s
Prevalence of Drugs Survey prepared in conjunction with the State
Highway Patrol’s Statistical Analysis Center. A random sample
of 2,075 Missourians were asked about the risk associated with various
illegal drugs.
“Missourian’s opinions on the drug problem
will aid this department in formulating better polices and programs
designed to improve public safety,” said Director of Public
Safety Mark James. “We remain committed to assisting criminal
justice agencies in making Missouri a safer place.”
The report is broken down into three sections; perceived
risk, drug abuse issues and social concerns. Heroin, Crack/Cocaine,
Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and Ecstacy were the chosen illegal drugs
evaluated.
Highlights from the report indicate Marijuana is the most commonly
used illicit drug, 61 percent believe the sale of all illegal drugs
should remain illegal, and over half the respondents felt the bulk
of funds dedicated to the war on drugs should be spent on arresting
and prosecuting those involved in drug trafficking.
Since taking office, Gov. Blunt has taken a no-tolerance
approach to criminal activity. In June 2005, Blunt signed tough anti-meth
legislation, which restricts the sales of products containing pseudoephedrine
or ephedrine and relocates them behind pharmacy counters. Since the
effective date of the anti-meth legislation on July 14, 2005, Missouri
has experienced a substantial decrease of 40 percent of meth incidents
statewide.
To
view the report, please visit our web site at www.dps.mo.gov.