Drugs and crime: Documenting, explaining, and intervening in the relationship

Glenn D. Walters

Chapter 18 in Research Handbook on Drugs and Society, 2026, pp 218-232 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: The drug–crime link has been one of the strongest findings of empirical research for many decades, yet there remains considerable debate about its nature and causes. This chapter, first, presents an overview of research documenting the presence and strength of the relationship between drugs and crime. Second, it reviews the main explanations for why this connection exists. Third, it discusses interventions for drug-using offenders, presenting a five-tiered model of change. In conclusion, it argues for the need for researchers to pay continuing attention to the complexities of the drug–crime link and suggests there can be cautious optimism about the possibility of supporting positive change for individuals.

Keywords: Crime; Criminal justice; Interventions; Treatment; Behavioural change (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781802209136
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