DUI. Possession. Distribution. Giving alcohol to people under the age of 21. You know these crimes are directly related to alcohol and drug use, but the real story of the relationship between alcohol, drugs and crime is much more serious. From sexual assault to theft to murder, substance abuse plays a starring role.
Alcohol/Drugs & Crime Statistics
Did you know that of the 2 million incarcerated individuals in the United States, 37% of them report drinking when they were arrested? If you look into violent crime statistics further, you’ll see an even more shocking link between substance abuse and addiction: 95% of all violent crimes reported at American colleges involve alcohol. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is the leading cause of death and disability for individuals under the age of 21. When it comes to rape and sexual assault, 90% of cases involve alcohol.
Incarceration has little effect on whether or not a person quits using, unfortunately. For example, one Department of Justice estimate suggests that up to 80% of jailed people abuse substances while up to 50% suffer from addiction. With no treatment or counseling, it’s likely that these individuals will return to society only to commit more crimes, all while under the influence. The DOJ estimates that 95% of prisoners return to using following release.
Other shocking statistics include:
- Thousands of prisoners in the federal and state prison systems self-report that they committed crimes to get money for more drugs
- Almost 30% of inmates reported being under the influence of alcohol or drugs when committing murder.
- Theft, robbery, fraud and burglary are also common among drug users. Nearly 40% of inmates acknowledge being on drugs or alcohol at the time of these crimes.
- Juvenile arrestees are more likely to test positive for marijuana than any other drug
Getting Help for Addiction
Substance abuse treatment is spotty at best in our prisons and jails, and imprisonment rarely ends with a commitment to long-term sobriety. However, with judge-monitored sobriety programs and Drug Courts, changes are happening.
If someone you care about is about to be incarcerated, don’t assume they’ll receive adequate treatment. 12 Keys Rehab in Florida may be able to help your loved one get the comprehensive treatment he or she needs. Call us anytime 24/7 at 1-800-338-5770 to get help now!