Part I, "Understanding the Problem," addresses the history of drug use and the development of drug-control policy, drug pharmacology, theories of drug abuse, and the role of source countries in drug trafficking. Part I also focuses on drug-related crimes that support the illicit drug industry and constitute the core of many senseless acts of violence in hundreds of neighborhoods around the country. Part II, "Gangs and Drugs," discusses the problem of organized crime's involvement in the drug trade. Part II reports that organized gangs bankrolled by the lucrative drug trade are not only rooted in major U.S. cities but are now expanding to communities of all sizes. Not only are traditional organized crime groups such as the Mafia involved in drug trafficking, but also nontraditional gangs that include inner-city youth gangs and newly emerging Asian youth gangs. These gangs rely on the drug trade for fast money and local control of criminal enterprises in their communities. Part III, "Fighting Back," considers what is being done and what can be done to best deal with the drug problem. The chapters discuss the role of Federal drug enforcement organizations, drug laws, and local drug enforcement initiatives. Additionally critical issues such as drug courier profiles, covert police initiatives, legalizing medical marijuana, needle exchange programs, drug testing in the workplace, and drug abuse in sports are examined. Each chapter includes discussion questions and an outline of chapter objectives. 360 references and a subject index