ResearchProjects

This project built on the findings from an earlier study by the study team that focused on illegal drug markets following Hurricane Katrina. Pilot studies were also conducted following Hurricane Gustav (disrupted New Orleans) and Ike (disrupted Galveston and Houston). The study focused on the processes by which drug markets are disrupted and changed by hurricanes. They analyzed the stages of disruption to illicit drug markets and drug-related violence in Galveston as a comparison with illicit markets in New Orleans and Houston. In addition they examined the stages of changes as illicit drug markets were restored and continued in the disaster cities (Galveston, New Orleans) and in Houston where many evacuees were relocated. The study provided important information which will help design public policy responses to illegal drug markets, especially during and following disasters.