| A number of previous works have examined the relationship between gang involvement and the use of illegal drugs. To date, however, no studies have collected gang-related survey data in conjunction with an objective measure of illicit drug use. Given the relationship between gang membership and deviance, it is hypothesized that current gang members will test positive for illegal drugs more than their non-gang member counterparts. In the current study, a survey of gang-related behaviors is collected from a sample of juvenile detainees interviewed through the Offender Population Urinalysis (OPUS) Program. Implications for drug control and other law enforcement strategies are assessed in light of the current findings. |
Updated 05/20/2006