Based on the research findings, this study presents a comprehensive picture of the estimated costs and impacts experienced by inmates and former inmates involved in drug-related offenses during legal proceedings, their affected families, and the state as the responsible party for law enforcement. The cumulative calculations reveal the “price” that all parties involved must pay when the state identifies drug-related criminal activities.
Drug offenses, which are often considered victimless crimes, are found in this study to be crimes that frequently victimize inmates and their closest relatives, with legal and logistical costs that are often overlooked. Moreover, the criminal process deprives inmates of many opportunities to find work and support their daily lives. In addition, there are psychological and social impacts on family members and close associates of the inmates, which are immaterial consequences of the sentencing.
This research analyzes the consequences of the high costs faced by inmates and drug users undergoing legal processes. The hope is that by highlighting the real impacts experienced by inmates and their close ones, the state can address several emerging issues, from inefficient case-handling mechanisms to unmet basic needs during the legal process.
