CJ 217 : SUBSTANCE USE & CRIMINALITY

This course offers an in-depth examination of the intricate relationship between substance use and criminality within the context of the criminal justice system. Students will explore the legal, sociological and historical dimensions that underpin the connection between substance use, criminal activity, and our criminal justice system responses. An emphasis will be placed on the behavioral component of substance use in relation to crime. Alternatives to our traditional punitive responses including the implementation of Drug Courts, the use of harm-reduction and prevention strategies, and the movement towards decriminalization will be discussed.