Drug-related offenses Drive growth in Montgomery, Alabama Prisons

Drug use has been the driving force behind the jump in those numbers, with the most frequent offense being possession of drugs. One third of prisoners are technically incarcerated with a drug offense. What's interesting to note is that over 75 percent of all prisoners had a drug problem that contributed to the crime for which they were ultimately incarcerated. Many of these prisoners have an extensive history with substance abuse and yet very few have had any experience with drug rehab treatment.

The steady increase of illicit drugs and the subsequent attempts to curb its use has resulted in a state where the prison population now exceeds 29,000 but it only has facilities big enough to hold 13,500. It's a situation that has placed great strain on state correction officials.

At the same time it has generated a great deal of commentary and controversy regarding the effectiveness of the system these officials are so desperately trying to maintain.

There are many who say that the over population of prisons is a direct result of the tougher laws enacted as part of America's "War on Drugs". That the numbers falsely represent progress since these penalties, particularly for drug possession, are unjust and don't fit the crime. This may or may not be true.

If drug incarceration numbers have steadily increased and so has illicit drug use, then it's safe to say that our current efforts have not produced the desired results. Putting people who abuse or are addicted to drugs into a concrete cell without also giving them a drug rehab program has been about as effective as a band aid on a broken arm.

The need for effective solutions to the substance abuse problem of Alabama is at an all new high.

Controversy aside, the numbers do tell us one thing and that's just how bad drug use and drug addiction have become. Far too many lives are being ruined by its use and it not only impacts the individual. Whether a friend, loved one, victim of drug crime or tax payer the burden is shared by us all. The need for effective drug rehab programs has become all too clear.