Outlook

Mexican DTOs will most likely expand their drug distribution networks in the HIDTA region over the coming year. Historically, Mexican criminal groups in the region transported and distributed drugs on behalf of Colombian and Dominican DTOs. However, these Mexican criminal groups are now using distribution networks that they previously established in southwestern states and other areas, such as Atlanta, from which they supply major drug markets throughout the United States, to increase their operations in the HIDTA region.

Heroin and prescription narcotics abuse will be the primary drug threat to the New England HIDTA region in the next year. Heroin will remain widely available and abused. Additionally, prescription narcotics abuse will fuel already high heroin abuse rates in the region because some prescription narcotics abusers will most likely switch to heroin, attracted by the drug's low cost.

Canada-based Asian DTOs will expand indoor hydroponically grown cannabis operations in the New England HIDTA region to capitalize on increasing demand for high-potency marijuana in the area. These DTOs will also be motivated to establish cannabis grow sites in the HIDTA region because they will be able to remain relatively close to their counterparts in Canada and will also be able to avoid the expense and risk of detection associated with cross-border smuggling.

Methamphetamine abuse in the New England HIDTA region will most likely remain at low but stable levels in the coming year. Methamphetamine abuse will most likely remain concentrated among the gay community in Boston and among groups of individuals who produce personal use quantities of the drug.

Members of New York-based African American and Hispanic street gangs will continue to relocate to rural areas of the HIDTA region to establish new retail-level drug markets. This situation may lead to increasing levels of drug-related crime, including violent crime, in these areas.

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