Statewide drug abuse statistics and law enforcement reporting reflect a continuing upward trend in illicit drug demand and supply. Relatively low prices and high purity levels indicate that drugs are readily available throughout the state. Several issues present notable areas of concern.

Powdered cocaine and crack will continue to pose the greatest threat in Ohio. Criminal groups distributing cocaine are realizing huge profits from sales in suburban and rural areas and will continue to spread to areas offering higher profits. An increase in crimes associated with cocaine distribution, such as assault, robbery, and domestic violence, likely will follow in these areas.

Heroin availability and abuse are increasing in Ohio, and the drug is becoming more popular, primarily among young adults. The increasing availability of higher purity South American heroin is contributing to this new user population. These users, principally young Caucasian suburbanites, perceive heroin use as less risky since higher purity heroin can be effectively smoked or snorted rather than injected. Mexican heroin producers are increasing purity levels to meet the demand for higher quality heroin. Heroin abuse is expected to increase in Ohio, since competition between criminal groups distributing higher purity Mexican and South American heroin will result in an increased supply at lower costs.

Methamphetamine production, distribution, and abuse are becoming greater threats in Ohio and are likely to intensify. Although Ohio invokes harsh penalties for possession of methamphetamine, penalties for possession of precursor chemicals are less severe. This situation has contributed to a surge in methamphetamine laboratories.

Marijuana will continue to be the most prevalent illicit drug throughout Ohio. The number of cannabis plants cultivated outdoors probably will decrease further as growers continue to move their operations indoors, mainly to avoid detection and to produce more potent marijuana. The number of indoor grows seized in Ohio has been increasing since 1997.

Club drugs such as MDMA and GHB are becoming a major threat in Ohio, especially among adolescents and young adults. The popularity of these drugs will continue to expand, especially in college towns. Increases in the number of raves will provide adolescents and young adults with easy access to these and a variety of illicit drugs. Varying levels of purity and the combination of club drugs and alcohol and other drugs pose a danger to the user. The number of emergency room and treatment admissions probably will increase as the popularity of these drugs continues to grow.

Pharmaceutical diversion is a lucrative business in Ohio, and the number of individuals illegally distributing pharmaceuticals probably will increase as independent profiteers realize the potential for large earnings. Since these drugs often are used in place of, or in conjunction with, other illicit drugs, the number of individuals abusing pharmaceuticals is likely to increase.

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