Adult-Use Cannabis Legalization Associated with Increased Clearance Rates for Violent Crimes

The legalization of adult-use cannabis is associated with increased clearance rates for varying types of violent crimes according to a study soon to be published in the International Journal of Drug Policy, outlined by NORML. Researchers from the University of Utah and the University of China looked at crime clearance rates in Oregon and control states prior to and post adult-use cannabis legalization.

Researchers found “significant increases in the clearance rate for overall violent crimes and for aggravated assault in Oregon counties relative to those in non-legalized states following legalization.” These findings validate prior studies in Colorado and Washington that revealed similar increases in clearance rates for violent and property crimes, NORML notes.

“These conclusions reaffirm the notion that states can sensibly regulate the adult use and sale of cannabis in a manner that doesn’t adversely impact public safety,” said NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano. “Moreover, in some cases, legalization may contribute to an environment that positively affects police officers’ performance in solving serious crimes.”

Titled “Recreational marijuana legalization on clearance rates for violent crimes: Evidence from Oregon,” the paper found, however, that the positive effects of legalization on clearance rates “appear to reduce over time.” Additional research is needed on the effect adult-use cannabis legalization has on police performance and clearance rates, investigators wrote.