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France's Policy Concerning Illegal Drug Users (From Drug Policies in Western Europe, P 143-159, 1989, Hans-Jorg Albrecht and Anton van Kalmthout, eds. -- See NCJ-120465)

NCJ Number
124074
Author(s)
J Bernat de Celis
Date Published
1989
Length
17 pages
Annotation
France's policy toward drugs is basically repressive, despite the placement of its drug law in its broader law dealing with public health.
Abstract
The 1970 law states that illegal drug users are to be placed under the supervision of the health authorities and gives the impression that the law's main goal is to medically assist these drug users. However, the consequences specified for drug users show clearly that drug abuse is punishable behavior and that users are under the control of the criminal justice system. Although the health authorities are not required to inform justice authorities about individuals who seek medical help, the public prosecutor can initiate a public action. In fact, instead of modifying the power of the public prosecutor, the 1970 law adds to his power by allowing the prosecutor to order treatment. Thus, the prosecutor has the choices of prosecuting, dismissing charges, or requiring treatment. Footnotes, appended discussion of penalties, and 2 references.

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