Drug Abuse among Military Offenders

Abstract

A survey of military offenders' drug abuse histories both prior to, and after entry on active duty was conducted at the United States Army Retraining Brigade in the fall of 1975. Results indicated that a substantial number of trainees began to abuse drugs prior to entering the military, but increased that use once on active duty. There was also a strong correlation between drug abuse and the court-martial offenses of AWOL, drug sales and possession, and disrespect. Findings clearly showed that individuals who commit offenses have substantial histories of alcohol and drug abuse.