Narcotic Drugs in Criminal Law

Narcotic Drugs in Criminal Law

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to expand the boundaries of our knowledge by exploring some relevant facts and figures relating to narcotic drugs in criminal law. Narcotics were among the earliest drugs used. Opium, a narcotic, was one of the most potent drugs of our ancient pharmacopeia, with a very long history of abuse. Narcotics, whether natural or synthetic, pharmacologically impact us by binding to specific narcotic receptor sites located in the central nervous system and in other tissues. There are several different classes of these receptors, such as the delta, kappa, and mu receptors. Further, there are respective subtypes to the various classes of receptors, each of which have a specific neurological response (Hamowy, 1987).

Accordingly, as different natural or synthetic narcotics bind to different receptors they produce varying pharmacodynamic responses. One of the most profound pharmacological effects of most narcotics, both natural and synthetic, is analgesia; antidiarrheal and cough suppressant functions have also been utilized. Habitual use of these substances, unfortunately, can readily progress to dependence. Narcotic abuse has been one of the primary targets for developers of drug policies (Erlen, 2004). In this paper, the author will present the classification of narcotic drugs in criminal law, focusing on the differences of each, the author will also examine the required forensic evidence needed to obtain a conviction in a drug case. Finally, the author will explain the necessity of analysis of drugs in a criminal case.

Discussion & Analysis

The Law Enforcement Division of the states is charged with enforcing all laws pertaining to the illicit traffic in controlled substances. These agencies direct statewide antidrug programs in support of drug interdiction, covert investigations, and forensic analysis of seized drug evidence. The Bureau of Drug Control (BDC), on the other hand, is charged ...