WHEREAS, the use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, has been proven to harm the mental and physical development of children and young adults and result in criminal activity and convictions that harm the success of people in subsequent years; and

WHEREAS, "recent research makes a stronger case that cannabis smoking itself is a causal agent in psychiatric symptoms, particularly schizophrenia. During the past three years a number of prominent studies have strengthened our understanding of that association and found that the age when marijuana is first smoked is a crucial risk factor in later development of mental health problems." ("The Link Between Marijuana and Mental Illness, A Survey of Recent Research," Executive Office of the President, Office of National Drug Control Policy, May 3, 2005, pg 1); and

WHEREAS, the persistent substance abuse by young people often leads to academic difficulties, health-related problems (including mental health), poor peer relationships, and involvement with the juvenile justice system. ("Marijuana Use and Delinquent Behaviors Among Youth", The National Survey on Drug Use and Health Report (NSDU), Office of Applied Studies, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, January 9, 2004, and "Age at First Use of Marijuana and Past Year Serious Mental Illness," NSDU, Office of Applied Studies, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, May 3, 2005); and

WHEREAS, education about the hazards of drug abuse is an effective means to reduce drug abuse and thwart those who advocate the decriminalization of illegal substances. "Illicit drug use by Americans fell from an estimated 24 million users in 1979 to 13 million users in 1994. Education, leadership by example, and vigorous enforcement of the law made the difference." (IACP/DEA, "A Police Chief’s Guide to the Legalization Issue," December 7, 2001, pg 6); and

WHEREAS, educating the public about emerging substance abuse problems in their community is the most effective way to reduce illegal drug use and build local support for a community anti-drug effort. Educating residents about substance abuse problems is best accomplished by Chiefs of Police and other law enforcement leaders. "By bringing together key stakeholders of a community---from prevention specialists to parents and policymakers---community briefings ensure that the necessary individuals and organizations are part of the solution." ("Community Briefings: A Prevention Tool For Communities," Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America); now therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the International Association of Chiefs of Police calls upon every Chief of Police and other law enforcement leaders to convene a local forum of educators, physicians, treatment professionals, anti-drug groups, faith-based groups, prosecutors, and law makers, to evaluate the extent of the drug problem in their community, and develop an ongoing strategy to combat it.