Users of "ice" more likely to engage in violence, property crime: Australian new report

Users of methamphetamine, commonly known as the drug "ice," are more likely to engage in violent and property crimes, according to new data released by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC).

Australia's Justice, Minister Michael released a statement Wednesday accompanying the report, which detailed that those who use ice are four-and-a-half times more likely to engage in violence and commit property crime compared to those who don't use ice.

"Recent data indicates methamphetamine use among police detainees nationally has increased from 14 percent in 2009 to 37 percent in 2014. It also reveals intoxication and the need for money for drugs are the most common motivations for individuals engaging in property crimes," Keenan said.

Keenan said data such as the AIC report would assist lawmakers and law enforcement agencies better combat the rise of ice in Australia.

He said information had already led to the implementation of a "Dob in a Dealer" campaign, which asks Australians to inform police of the whereabouts of potential drug dealers.

"Identifying trends in and motivations for offending among methamphetamine users can assist the government in its efforts to combat the spread of this insidious drug, by recognizing the impact of methamphetamine use on offending," Keenan said.

The Justice Minister added that the government would continue to fund further resources so that law enforcement agencies can end the "ice epidemic."

"The government remains firmly committed to combating this evil trade by providing law enforcement and intelligence agencies with the resources, powers and tools they need to fight crime and the ice epidemic," Keenan said. Enditem