INDEX CRIME PREVALENCE IN RELATION TO ILLEGAL DRUG PROBLEMS IN LUCENA CITY

This study investigated the index crime prevalence related to illegal drug problems for the year 2016 and 2017 in the city of Lucena. It utilized quantitative approach in gathering data. A survey questionnaire was used in gathering information from the selected respondents. Percentage, frequency, weighted mean and ranking were used in the treatment of data. Results revealed that poverty is one major factor that makes index crime related to illegal drug problems prevalent. People who are in need of money are easily recruited to be a part of an illegal drugs organization since it is a fast way to earn money. Since they are given opportunities by illegal drug syndicates, this will be their primary means to earn a living. The respondents also explained other factors such as the unfair distribution of money from profits gained in illegal drugs and drugs that aren’t paid for by the users are such that increases index crime prevalence in connection with illegal drug problems in Lucena City. The results also showed that murder is the most common index crime that is committed in Lucena City. It is recommended that the Philippine National Police of Lucena City in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency may strengthen the enforcement of the law and identify, intercept and arrest the supplier of illegal drugs in Lucena City to lessen illegal drug use that can lead to a commission of an index crime. It is also recommended that the local government in coordination with local Non-Government Organizations may provide proactive activities to the minority of the communities of Lucena and give them opportunities to have decent jobs' so they can earn for a living. The local government in coordination with the Philippine National Police of Lucena City may launch a campaign in Lucena City about illegal drug awareness and the dangers of its effects to oneself and to the community.