Drug Addiction and Crime

Drug addiction and crime often go hand in hand. Sustaining drug addiction is expensive, and many addicts will go to great lengths to get their fix.

In addition to the cost of drugs, the possession and abuse of certain drugs is also illegal. A substance abuse disorder can prevent someone from fulfilling their responsibilities at work. Many individuals with drug addictions struggle to keep their jobs, often resulting in homelessness. Despite these problems, however, many addicts resort to criminal activity to maintain their habit. 

As a drug rehab in Illinois, we’re aware of the behavior addicts may resort to in order to feed an active addiction. Our licensed and trained staff are dedicated to helping every patient that walks through our doors achieve sobriety and avoid the repercussions of long-term drug abuse. 

The Connection Between Drug Abuse and Crime

For many addicts, they hit a point where they rely on criminal activity to support their substance abuse. For this reason, many people with substance abuse disorders have long histories with the law. Especially for individuals who are opposed to seeking addiction treatment, they’re more likely to have repeated run-ins with the law. It’s not uncommon for drug addicts to have multiple arrests and several prison sentences on their records. Many addicts may look to stealing money or things they can sell for money to buy drugs. 

Stealing

Because unemployment and drug addiction are linked to each other, many addicts are unemployed and don’t have the finances to maintain a home, let alone keep up their substance abuse. These individuals are often driven to criminal activity, like stealing, to gain the means to continue using. While the more hardcore, drug-related crimes like trafficking and distribution can be linked to many prison inmates, individuals who struggle with addictions may turn to petty crimes to buy enough for the moment. 

Domestic Abuse

Drug abuse is also heavily associated with violent behavior. Many domestic abuse cases involve drugs or alcohol. Long-term substance abuse can change the brain’s chemical makeup, affecting a person’s mood and behavior. Especially if the individual is lacking in their usual supply, they can be especially irritable and are more likely to act out aggressively. 

Drug Possession 

Drug possession charges are also common among drug addicts. While many states are in the process of legalizing marijuana, other drugs, like cocaine, crack cocaine, meth, and heroin are illegal. A person caught with possession of these drugs can receive some hefty fines and jail time depending on the substance in question and the amount they had on their person. 

At Banyan Chicago, we offer different treatments for various types of substance abuse disorders. From cocaine to opiate addiction treatment, each program is designed to address the substance-specific repercussions.