Outlook

Heroin, primarily South American, most likely will remain the primary drug threat to Vermont, as the drug is readily available and commonly abused. Treatment and mortality data suggest that heroin abuse is a serious problem, and there are no indications that abuse levels will decrease in the near future. Caucasian local independent dealers will remain the dominant retail-level distributors of heroin in Vermont.

Cocaine will continue to pose a significant threat to the state. Treatment, mortality, and survey data reflect the continuing problems associated with cocaine distribution and abuse within the state. Caucasian local independent dealers will remain the dominant retail-level distributors of powdered cocaine in Vermont. African American local independent dealers will remain the dominant retail-level distributors of crack cocaine.

Marijuana will remain the most readily available and commonly abused illicit drug in Vermont. Mexico-produced marijuana will remain the most prevalent type available in the state due to established sources of supply and transportation routes; however, marijuana produced locally and in Canada will also remain available.

Diverted pharmaceuticals, particularly OxyContin, will continue to pose a drug threat to Vermont. The number of OxyContin-related crimes in the state has increased, and this increase likely will continue as law enforcement resources focus on the growing heroin distribution problem. The availability and abuse of MDMA will continue to pose a growing threat to the state. LSD will remain a relatively low threat to Vermont.

Treatment data and law enforcement information indicate that methamphetamine rarely is produced, available, or abused in the state. Thus, the threat posed by methamphetamine likely will remain low.

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