Dr. Ben Carson, a respected neurosurgeon and former US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, has issued a sharp warning about the connection between marijuana and crime. As discussions around legalisation continue to spread, he cautions that easing restrictions on cannabis could further worsen the already serious problems of crime, addiction, and homelessness across American cities.

Carson’s warning comes as federal discussions intensify around reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance – an effort that would make the drug more accessible nationwide. While some see this as a progressive step, Carson believes the consequences could be damaging to both public health and safety.

“The intent may be compassionate, but the consequences are harmful,” Carson said, drawing from decades of experience witnessing how substance misuse affects families and communities.”

Crime Rises with Marijuana Legalisation

Evidence increasingly supports Carson’s concern about marijuana and crime. A University of Colorado study revealed that neighbourhoods with at least one marijuana dispensary saw crime rates up to 1,452% higher than those without. In Denver, such areas recorded 85 more property crimes per year, showing a clear correlation between dispensaries and rising offences.

A 2024 nationwide review found that in states where cannabis was legalised, substance-use disorders increased by 17%, chronic homelessness by 35%, and arrests by 13%. Even more worrying, arrests for violent crimes rose by 18%, while property crimes grew by 15%.

These findings suggest that cannabis and public safety do not always coexist peacefully. Instead, higher drug availability often brings instability, contradicting claims that legalisation leads to safer communities.

The Hidden Cost of Addiction

Beyond the statistics, Carson emphasised the behavioural effects linked to marijuana and crime. A 2024 study found young men who used marijuana daily were 82% more likely to engage in violent behaviour compared to non-users.

“Today’s marijuana is far stronger than in the past,” Carson said, noting that modern THC levels can reach up to 99%, compared to just 2–3% decades ago. Such potency increases the risk of addiction, mental health problems, and impaired judgement—factors often associated with criminal activity and social decline.

Lessons from Failed Experiments

States that relaxed their cannabis laws are now confronting harsh realities. Oregon, once seen as a pioneer in drug reform, reversed course after a surge in overdoses, crime, and homelessness. The state legislature ultimately recriminalised drug possession to restore order.

Meanwhile, the DEA has reported that cannabis and public safety are further threatened by organised crime. Cartels have exploited loopholes in legal markets, using marijuana operations as a front for wider criminal activity.

A Call for Responsible Leadership

For Carson, the path forward lies in prioritising prevention and public well-being over profit or political pressure.

“The health, safety, and stability of our families depend on responsible leadership,” he said. “We must let evidence, not ideology, guide our approach to drug policy.”

As the debate over marijuana and crime continues, Carson’s message is clear: compassion without caution can have devastating consequences. Policymakers must consider the real-world outcomes of drug legalisation before making decisions that could reshape entire communities.

Source: Fox News