In 1979 Poland identified 8,000 drug abusers; in 1983 the number was 13,000. In 1979 there were 1,313 drug offenses, while in 1983 there were 3,014. Many drug offenses involved illegal manufacture of opiates. When the histories of 110 criminals were studied, it was found that they too had been drug abusers. Polish law provides that offenders whose drug addiction or drug trafficking acts present exceptional public danger can be imprisoned. The penal sentences of drug addicts are set aside until the offenders have received successful drug abuse treatment in an institution. After successful treatment, a court may review the drug abuser's case and reduce or waive the criminal penalty. To respond to increased drug abuse problems, Poles are drafting a new comprehensive drug law. (Author abstract modified)