If Drug Treatment Works so Well, Why are so Many Drug Users in Prison?

70 Pages Posted: 7 Feb 2011 Last revised: 19 Sep 2024

See all articles by Harold A. Pollack

Harold A. Pollack

University of Chicago - School of Social Service Administration

Peter H. Reuter

University of Maryland

Eric L Sevigny

Georgia State University

Date Written: January 2011

Abstract

This paper examines the effectiveness of drug courts to reduce the size of the incarcerated drug-offending population using data from the Survey of Inmates in State Correctional Facilities and the Survey of Inmates in Local Jails. We find that very few of those entering state prison in 2004 or jail in 2002 would have been eligible for drug diversion through state drug courts. The policy implication is that drug courts and other diversion programs require substantial redesign if they are to contribute to a reduction in the incarcerated population.

Suggested Citation

Pollack, Harold A. and Reuter, Peter H. and Sevigny, Eric L, If Drug Treatment Works so Well, Why are so Many Drug Users in Prison? (January 2011). NBER Working Paper No. w16731, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1755449

Harold A. Pollack (Contact Author)

University of Chicago - School of Social Service Administration ( email )

969 E. 60th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
United States

Peter H. Reuter

University of Maryland ( email )

College Park
College Park, MD 20742
United States

Eric L Sevigny

Georgia State University ( email )

140 Decatur St
1225 Urban Life Building
Atlanta, GA GA 30306
United States
14044131038 (Phone)

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