Oregon's Crime and Overdoses: More COVID Than Cannabis?

The aftermath of Oregon’s decision to decriminalize narcotics has sparked a furious debate. Some voices rise in frustration, holding the 2020 ballot measure responsible for the state’s burgeoning crime rate. Yet, a recent compelling study from the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Portland State University (PSU) shares a divergent narrative—suggesting a very different villain in the crime and overdose spike saga.

Pandemic and Fentanyl: The Real Culprits?

Imagine this: amidst accusations linking Oregon’s crime surge to drug decriminalization, researchers dive deep into the heart of the matter. What they unearthed was not a correlation to the legislative changes of 2020, but instead, the disruptive power of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ominous shadow of fentanyl infiltrating communities. These events unfolded much like a storm, upending societal norms and sending ripples through every aspect—justice system included.

“The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the justice system the most, more so than any legislation,” explained Brian Renauer, a lead researcher at PSU. The implications are vast, and the conclusions, startling.

A Decade of Legislative Evolution

From 2013’s shift to milder sentences for marijuana and increased probation-focused approaches, to 2017’s reclassification of certain drug possession offenses, Oregon’s path has been nothing short of pioneering. The crescendo was November 2020’s Measure 110, which saw misdemeanor charges for small drug possessions reduced to a simple $100 violation. Such bold moves were not without scrutiny and criticism, yet the PSU study found no direct connection to rising crime rates.

Overdose Rates Preceded Decriminalization

Overdose deaths paint a grim picture. Their burgeon began long before the laws shifted in 2020. By 2023, the figures had doubled from the numbers in 2020, highlighting an epidemic in its own right. The frenzied pace at which these rates declined by 2024 further enforces the absence of any causal link to the decriminalization policy.

Christopher Campbell, a PSU associate professor and study co-author, noted, “While Measure 110 had its flaws and regional impacts, crime trends statewide were stable or declining by 2023.” Once again, the specter of COVID-19 and fentanyl loomed larger than policy innovations.

Shifting Focus to Treatment and Recovery

The recent requirement for those caught with small drug amounts to enter deflection programs offers hope. It’s a beacon of light amidst dark statistics, emphasizing treatment over punishment.

Oregon’s unique approach to tackling crime and drug usage opens a grand conversation. By delving into the nuances of public health and safety, as outlined by PSU’s findings, there’s a call not just for recognition of the real culprits but an invitation for communities to stand united in recovery endeavors.

As stated in Oregon Capital Chronicle, Oregon’s journey illustrates that addressing complex social issues requires more than policy—it demands understanding and collaboration.