Rising Trends in Crack, Cocaine, and LSD; Notable Decline in Cannabis Offenses

Recent data from police crime statistics in Germany reveals a significant decline in drug-related offenses, coinciding with the partial legalization of cannabis one year ago. The total number of registered drug offenses has decreased by 34.2 percent, falling to 228,104 cases.

The report indicates that the legalization of cannabis has led to unique effects in the crime statistics, which is expected to be elaborated upon by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser. Additionally, there has been a decrease in heroin-related offenses, which dropped by 14.8 percent to 8,634 cases.

However, contrary trends are observed with the use of crack and cocaine, where reported incidents increased by 4.8 percent to 38,671 cases. Methamphetamine cases also rose by 6.0 percent, reaching 11,070 incidents. LSD offenses witnessed an alarming surge of 32.6 percent, totaling 1,073 cases. Furthermore, the emergence of new psychoactive substances (NPS) has been particularly concerning, with an increase of 41.6 percent, bringing the total to 4,255 cases.

This rise in NPS incidents is particularly notable within correctional facilities, where these substances are often found on paper strips, referred to as 'JVA papers.' The increase is attributed to more rigorous drug testing protocols for inmates, which have become more prevalent.

Authorities attribute the rising figures of cocaine and crack to their high availability across Germany and Europe. Expanding agricultural areas and increasing production in South America have enhanced the market supply. Cocaine is now regarded as a 'lifestyle drug' among various social strata. While recorded cases of amphetamines and their derivatives, including ecstasy, still surpass those of cocaine with 39,133 cases, a convergence in the frequency of these drugs is becoming evident.