ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the different approaches to combating drug use in the United States and the debates that have ensued over the issue of how best to conduct the drug war. It describes the ongoing efforts by federal, state, and local authorities to stem the tide of illegal drugs entering the United States. The chapter examines the growing threat from Mexican and other foreign-based drug cartels as they increase their presence in the United States and engage in mounting violence over control of the lucrative trade in drugs. The drug policies of the United States are beginning to soften, at least toward marijuana. However, government officials continue to stress the connection between drugs, addiction, and violence. As heroin use moved from the cities to suburban and rural areas and deaths spiked, governmental leaders and community activists renewed calls for drastic measures, accenting a mix of policing, prevention, education, and rehabilitation.
