The International Drug Strategy Institute calls attention to new information from major research groups linking homicides to the use of marijuana.

As published in the International Journal of Addictions, 1994;29;195-213, interviews with 268 individuals incarcerated in New York State for homicide demonstrated that 71% of individuals who used marijuana in the 24 hours before the crime related that they were experiencing some effects from the drug. 25% felt that the homicide was related to their drug use at the time of the homicide.

"It should be no surprise that marijuana is associated with homicides. Marijuana causes perceptual and judgment impairment which has also been associated with vehicular trauma and behavioral disorders. Commission of crimes - including homicides - is consistent with these problems."

Despite clear evidence to the contrary, spokesmen from the drug culture frequently assert that marijuana is harmless or has minimal physiological or behavioral consequences.

(Eric A. Voth, M.D., F.A.C.P. Chairman, The International Drug Strategy Institute)