In Texas and across the country, a drug abuse violation is the most common reason for an arrest. Between 1982 and 2007, drug violations steadily rose. Sales and manufacturing leveled over time, but possession rose sharply. Drug crimes by juveniles are about the same as in past decades, but more adults than ever are committing those crimes.
Specific drug violations
According to the FBI, drug violations topped the list of crimes in 2007. There were 1.8 million drug violations and about 1.4 million arrests for driving under the influence. In the 1980s, heroin and cocaine were the most common drug. Marijuana use was lower, and synthetic drugs were rarely seen. Synthetic drugs and other drugs steadily became more popular between 1982 and 2007. Heroin and cocaine use is lower now than in the past but still used more than most other drugs. The only drug used more than heroin and cocaine is marijuana, which became more popular starting in the 1990s.
Specific drug seizures
Some of the federal agencies that handle drug seizures include the FBI, U.S. Customs Service and the DEA. Between 2000 and 2003, the most seized drug was marijuana. Cocaine was the next highest drug in seizures. From 2001 to 2003, heroin was the third most seized drug. Of the 16,270 illegal drug laboratories seized between 1975 and 2003, 97% of them made methamphetamines.
The drug industry evolves as different drugs rise in popularity. In 2004, federal agencies hired 105,000 employees to make drug arrests throughout the country. The DEA hired another 4,400 officers to make drug arrests. The FBI hired 12,242 employees who can make arrests in over 200 types of federal crimes. Individuals who are facing charges for drug crimes may have to contend with evidence seized by one or more of these agencies.
