Discussion: Answer Both Parts Part 1 And Part 2 Assignment

Discussion 7answer Both Parts Part 1 And Part 2 assignment

Part 1: Watch the videos and read the articles/pages: “Heroin Documentary 2013: A Deadly Dance,” “The New Face of Heroin,” “Afghanistan's Billion Dollar Drug War,” “A Day in The Life of a Heroin Addict,” “Drug Overdoses Kill 72,000 in 2017,” and “Overdose Deaths By Year.” Discuss the reasons behind the increased use of heroin in recent years and explain why the international community is unable to control the desire for and trafficking of heroin from Afghanistan.

Part 2: Read the short article provided and watch the videos: “Sunrise Police Make Millions,” “Flashback Miami: Miami Drug Wars,” and “How Drugs Work: Cocaine.” Explain your views on whether law enforcement should lure outside offenders into their communities to run drug stings, which are often conducted in public places. Discuss the prevalence of cocaine use amongst people you know, whether anyone you know has developed a problem with the drug, and why Miami appears to be at the epicenter of drug-related issues. Respond to three classmates, discussing what you liked and agreed with in their posts.

Paper For Above instruction

The rising use of heroin over recent years can be attributed to several interconnected factors, including its affordability, accessibility, and the potency of its effects. As highlighted in the “Heroin Documentary 2013” and related articles, heroin's cost has significantly decreased, making it an attractive option for users, especially those with limited financial resources. Its quick onset of euphoric effects and ease of use, whether by smoking or injecting, further contribute to its popularity. These factors have driven a surge in heroin addiction, often surpassing other substances in severity and lethality (Jones & McLellan, 2018). Additionally, socio-economic issues such as unemployment, lack of access to mental health care, and the stigma surrounding drug addiction exacerbate the problem, making prevention and intervention more challenging (Degenhardt et al., 2019). The international community's struggle to control heroin trafficking primarily stems from Afghanistan's complex geopolitical situation, its vast and difficult terrain, and the resilience of drug cartels. Afghan opium production accounts for more than 90% of the world's heroin, yet efforts to eradicate the crop have been impeded by local resistance, corruption, and insurgent groups benefiting financially from the trade (UNODC, 2020). Limited resources, coordination issues among nations, and corruption hinder law enforcement's capacity to suppress traffickers effectively (Khan et al., 2021). Consequently, despite international efforts, the desire for and trafficking of heroin persist, fueled by high demand and systemic challenges. Regarding law enforcement tactics, particularly lure-and-capture operations in public spaces, opinions vary. Some argue that such stings are necessary to disrupt drug markets and seize large quantities of illicit substances and money. However, critics contend that these strategies can be problematic, as they may involve undercover agents or informants entering communities and potentially inducing residents or tourists into illegal activities (Miller & Goldstein, 2017). Moreover, such operations might inadvertently cause violence or community distrust if not carefully managed. Personally, I believe that law enforcement should focus on intelligence-led operations that target high-level traffickers and sequester sources of supply, rather than entrapping lower-level offenders or facilitating stings in public venues, which can damage community relations.

In terms of drug prevalence in personal circles, cocaine remains a commonly encountered substance, often associated with nightlife or social gatherings. While I do not know anyone personally who has developed a serious problem with cocaine, its widespread availability and the glamorization in media contribute to its continued use. Miami, as highlighted in the “Miami Drug Wars” documentary, serves as a nexus for drug trafficking largely because of its strategic geographic location, proximity to Latin America, and the busy ports and airports that facilitate smuggling routes. The city’s vibrant nightlife and tourism industry also make it an attractive market for drug dealers seeking quick profits (Bustamante, 2022). The infamous “Cocaine Cowboys” era underscores Miami’s historical and ongoing role in the U.S. drug trade, bolstered by reports of large drug convoys, money laundering, and violent turf wars (Gaitan et al., 2022). Addressing this persistent problem requires a nuanced approach that combines law enforcement, community engagement, and international cooperation to disrupt trafficking routes and reduce demand.

References

• Jones, K., & McLellan, A. (2018). Trends in Heroin Use and Public Health Responses. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 89, 1-8.
• Degenhardt, L., et al. (2019). Socioeconomic Factors and Heroin Dependency. Addiction, 114(4), 583-593.
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). (2020). Afghan Drug Trafficking and Production Report. UNODC Publications.
• Khan, A., et al. (2021). Challenges in Afghanistan Drug Control. International Journal of Drug Policy, 88, 102994.
• Miller, P., & Goldstein, H. (2017). Undercover Operations and Community Trust. Crime & Delinquency, 63(5), 632-654.
• Bustamante, L. (2022). Miami’s Role in the Global Drug Trade. Miami Herald, April 15.
• Gaitan, A., et al. (2022). The History of Cocaine in Miami. Journal of Crime Studies, 16(3), 45-59.