The analysis considers detailed data gathered in California as well as official statistics and research findings from many other States. Results reveal that although official statistics appear to be clear, they seldom mean what they appear to mean. Definitional issues can produce confusion about the drug abuse patterns being reported and influence the definitions of particular offenses. However, drug policies in the United States have never been based upon definitive, published data, resulting in absurd crime categories and policies that harm both individuals and society. In addition, the best official drug statistics are only mildly enlightening in limited areas and as adjuncts to more sophisticated analysis. The statistics have only a minor role in policymaking, and it is uncertain whether data gathered to aid a repressive government can be used for forming reasonable and tolerant policies. Chapter reference notes and 157 references