Improving police conceptual knowledge of Mexico's law on cannabis possession: Findings from an assessment of a police education program

Am J Addict. 2018 Dec;27(8):608-611. doi: 10.1111/ajad.12827.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Policing practices do not reflect recent decriminalization of drug possession in Mexico. We assessed knowledge of cannabis law as part of a police education program (PEP) post-drug law reform in Tijuana.

Methods: Officers took pre-/post-PEP surveys; random subsample (n = 759) received follow-up assessments. Longitudinal logistic regression (pre-, post-, 3-months post-PEP) measured knowledge of cannabis law.

Results: PEP increased conceptual knowledge of cannabis law from baseline to post-training (AOR = 56.1, CI: 41.0-76.8) and 3 months post-PEP (AOR = 11.3, CI: 9.0-14.2).

Conclusion and scientific significance: PEPs improve police knowledge of cannabis law. Reforms should be bundled with PEPs to improve policy implementation. (Am J Addict 2018;XX:XX-XX).

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cannabis*
  • Educational Measurement
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marijuana Abuse* / epidemiology
  • Marijuana Abuse* / prevention & control
  • Mexico
  • Police* / education
  • Police* / standards
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Teaching*