Excessive alcohol and drug use is a significant concern with widespread effects on society, contributing to higher crime rates.
Research has increasingly linked substance abuse with violent behaviour. Individuals who engage in criminal activities tend to report higher levels of drug and alcohol use compared to non-criminals. Experts have associated alcohol, central nervous system stimulants, cannabis, anabolic steroids, and opioids with violent behaviour. For instance, researchers have linked cocaine use to both victims and perpetrators in violent crimes, while they often associate methamphetamine with violent behaviour.
In forensic studies, alcohol consistently emerges as the most prevalent substance in cases of sexual assault and homicide. A study found alcohol in 41% of sexual assault victims, while other studies have shown alcohol to be the most common substance detected in both victims and perpetrators of homicide.
Understanding the role of various substances in criminal acts, including blunt and sharp force trauma, is essential for developing more effective prevention strategies in forensic settings.
The Study:
One study examined the prevalence of substance use among victims and perpetrators involved in clinical forensic cases.
Researchers collected urine samples from 455 individuals aged 18 and over. They recorded data, including gender, age, and the individual’s role, in a fully anonymised database.
Experts analysed the samples using two LC-MS-based analytical methods and an HS-GC-FID method to detect the most commonly reported substances of abuse and medications.
Findings:
The findings revealed that alcohol was detected as the most frequently occurring substance in 37% of all cases. Followed by cannabis (22%) and central nervous system stimulants (24%). Other substances identified included benzodiazepines, anabolic steroids, antipsychotic agents, and antidepressants. Tests detected no drugs or alcohol in 32% of victims and 19% of perpetrators.
The study also explored the interrelationship of substance use patterns between victims and perpetrators. This showed that both parties were often under the influence of substances at the time of the incident. Researchers found a significant difference in substance use between perpetrators involved in blunt and sharp force cases and those in sexual assault cases.
Timely sample collection and structured toxicological analysis of both victims and perpetrators in clinical forensic cases are crucial. These processes improve our understanding of the link between substance use and criminal activity. This knowledge enables the development of more informed prevention strategies.
