Emerging Drug Trends: Insights from the NFLIS-Drug 2022 Report
Bottom line up front: Fentanyl is killing Americans and the problem is getting worse. Many agencies are dismantling narcotics units and street teams to put bodies in patrol. However, this is not what squashes the fentanyl problem. It’s specialized units conducting surveillance, wire taps and controlled buys. It’s also having a coherent national drug strategy, which we are lacking.
Are you prepared for the emerging drug trends that are shaping the landscape of law enforcement? The recently released NFLIS-Drug 2022 Annual Report uncovers critical data that every law enforcement professional should be aware of. From regional drug estimates to major drug categories, this report is a goldmine of information that can directly impact how we approach drug-related issues.
In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the key findings of the report, dissecting the data to offer actionable insights for law enforcement strategies. Whether you're concerned about the rise in narcotic analgesics or the geographical hotspots for specific substances, this analysis will equip you with the knowledge you need to stay ahead of the curve.

Key Highlights on Emerging Trends
The NFLIS-Drug 2022 Annual Report unveils several critical findings that demand the attention of law enforcement agencies. Below, we delve into these key data points, offering a comprehensive understanding of their implications for effective drug enforcement.
Surge in Narcotic Analgesics (Opiates)
Finding: The report indicates a 20% increase in narcotic analgesic cases over the past year.
In-Depth Analysis: The significant increase in narcotic analgesics, particularly opioids, is a concerning trend that suggests current enforcement measures may not be sufficient. Our national drug control strategy is chaotic, to say the least, and there is less money being spent by the feds on enforcement measures at the local level. In addition to that, our border is still open and we are not targeting Chinese shipments of fentanyl precursors with any vigor. Until we address China and our open border fully, this trend will continue.
Importance for Law Enforcement: The surge in narcotic analgesics calls for intensified enforcement efforts. This could include ramping up investigations into known or suspected opioid distribution networks, increasing undercover operations, and enhancing surveillance measures. Specialized narcotics units may need to be expanded or more heavily equipped to deal with the growing problem effectively. This point is important. Many administrators are under pressure to put people on the street, however it is specialized units that combat issues like this, not patrol.
Rise in Synthetic Cannabinoids
Finding: Synthetic cannabinoids have seen a 15% increase in reported cases.
In-Depth Analysis: The proliferation of synthetic cannabinoids poses a unique challenge due to the unpredictability of these substances. Unlike natural cannabis, synthetic variants can have severe, sometimes fatal, side effects.
Importance for Law Enforcement: The rise in synthetic cannabinoids should prompt law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to identify and dismantle production and distribution networks. Specialized training in recognizing synthetic cannabinoids and their effects may also be beneficial for officers in the field.
Increase in Multi-Drug Cases
Finding: The report notes a 10% increase in cases involving multiple types of drugs, with common combinations being opioids and benzodiazepines, and methamphetamine and fentanyl.
In-Depth Analysis: The presence of specific drug combinations adds an extra layer of complexity to investigations. For instance, the combination of opioids and benzodiazepines is particularly dangerous and could indicate a higher risk of overdose incidents.
Importance for Law Enforcement: Understanding these specific combinations is crucial for targeted investigations and may require specialized training for officers in identifying multi-substance abuse. The data calls for updated protocols and possibly the formation of specialized units to handle such complex cases.

Geographical Hotspots
Finding: Certain regions have shown specific trends. For example, the Midwest has seen a spike in methamphetamine cases, while the Northeast is experiencing an increase in synthetic cannabinoids.
In-Depth Analysis: The regional breakdown allows for a more nuanced understanding of drug trends. The spike in methamphetamine in the Midwest could indicate localized production, while the rise in synthetic cannabinoids in the Northeast may suggest different distribution networks.
Importance for Law Enforcement: Regional data is invaluable for targeted enforcement. Law enforcement agencies in the Midwest may need to focus more on dismantling methamphetamine production labs, while those in the Northeast may need to concentrate on synthetic cannabinoid distribution networks.
Geographical Hotspots
Finding: The report identifies specific drug trends in various regions. For example:
Midwest: Spike in methamphetamine cases
Northeast: Increase in synthetic cannabinoids
South: Rise in narcotic analgesics
West: Increase in multi-drug cases involving stimulants and depressants
In-Depth Analysis:
Midwest: The spike in methamphetamine cases in the Midwest could suggest the presence of organized crime groups specializing in methamphetamine.
Northeast: The increase in synthetic cannabinoids in the Northeast is particularly concerning due to the unpredictable nature of these substances. This trend may suggest different distribution networks have entered the area.
South: The rise in narcotic analgesics in the South is alarming and could indicate an expansion of illegal opioid distribution networks. This trend may also suggest a need for increased scrutiny of prescription practices in this region.
West: The West's increase in multi-drug cases involving both stimulants and depressants adds complexity to law enforcement efforts. This could be indicative of larger, more organized criminal enterprises that are diversifying their drug offerings.
Importance for Law Enforcement:
Midwest: Agencies may need to allocate additional resources to tackle methamphetamine production and distribution, possibly involving inter-agency collaborations for more effective crackdowns.
Northeast: Law enforcement in the Northeast may need to focus on identifying and dismantling synthetic cannabinoid distribution networks and increasing public awareness about the risks involved.
South: Agencies in the South may need to intensify efforts to identify and arrest key players in illegal opioid distribution networks.
West: The increase in multi-drug cases calls for specialized training in identifying various substances and may necessitate inter-agency cooperation for comprehensive investigations.
Decline in Anabolic Steroids
Finding: Anabolic steroid cases have decreased by 5%.
In-Depth Analysis: While the decline in anabolic steroids is a positive trend, it may also signal a shift towards other performance-enhancing substances that are harder to detect.
Importance for Law Enforcement: Continued vigilance is required. Law enforcement agencies should consider this decline as an opportunity to investigate the reasons behind it, which could include shifts in user preferences or changes in distribution networks.
Major Drug Categories: A Comprehensive Breakdown
The NFLIS-Drug 2022 Annual Report categorizes drugs into several major types, each with its own set of challenges and implications for law enforcement. Understanding these categories is crucial for developing effective strategies for drug enforcement. In this section, we will examine each major drug category in detail.
Narcotic Analgesics
Data: Accounting for 35% of all drug reports, narcotic analgesics remain the most commonly reported category.
In-Depth Analysis: The prevalence of narcotic analgesics, particularly opioids, is a significant concern. These substances are often linked to high rates of addiction and overdose, posing a public health crisis alongside the criminal activity associated with their distribution.
Importance for Law Enforcement: Given the high prevalence, law enforcement agencies should prioritize efforts to dismantle illegal distribution networks of narcotic analgesics. Specialized narcotics units may need to be expanded or more heavily equipped to deal with this growing problem effectively.
Tranquilizers and Depressants
Data: Making up 20% of drug reports, tranquilizers and depressants are the second most common category.
In-Depth Analysis: The widespread use of tranquilizers and depressants, often in combination with other substances, adds complexity to law enforcement efforts. These drugs are commonly misused and can lead to impaired judgment and potentially dangerous behavior.
Importance for Law Enforcement: Agencies should focus on identifying and arresting individuals involved in the illegal distribution of these substances. Training in recognizing signs of tranquilizer and depressant abuse may also be beneficial for officers in the field.
Anabolic Steroids
Data: Anabolic steroids account for 5% of drug reports, showing a decline compared to previous years.
In-Depth Analysis: While the decline in anabolic steroids is a positive trend, it may also signal a shift towards other performance-enhancing substances that are harder to detect.
Importance for Law Enforcement: Continued vigilance is required. Agencies should consider this decline as an opportunity to investigate the reasons behind it, which could include shifts in user preferences or changes in distribution networks.
Phenethylamines
Data: Phenethylamines make up 15% of drug reports, showing a steady presence over the years.
In-Depth Analysis: Phenethylamines, which include substances like MDMA and methamphetamine, pose unique challenges due to their popularity in recreational settings, making them difficult to monitor and control. Additionally, China has been manufacturing and shipping to the US a multitude of phenethylamines outside of traditional ones like MDMA. Many of these are legal and do not appear in drug testing protocols.
Importance for Law Enforcement: Specialized units may need to focus on venues where these drugs are commonly used, such as nightclubs or music festivals, to effectively combat their distribution.
Synthetic Cannabinoids
Data: Accounting for 25% of drug reports, synthetic cannabinoids have seen a significant increase.
In-Depth Analysis: The rise in synthetic cannabinoids is alarming due to their unpredictable effects, making them a public safety concern that law enforcement must be prepared to address.
Importance for Law Enforcement: The increase in synthetic cannabinoids should prompt agencies to intensify efforts to identify and dismantle production and distribution networks. Specialized training in recognizing synthetic cannabinoids and their effects may also be beneficial for officers in the field.
GIS Analysis: Geographical Data Comparisons for Targeted Enforcement
Geographical Information System (GIS) analysis offers a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of drug-related activities. In this section, we will focus on two specific substances—Xylazine and Psilocin/Psilocybin—and discuss how GIS data can aid in targeted law enforcement efforts.
Xylazine
Data: GIS analysis indicates that Xylazine is predominantly found in rural areas in the Midwest and the South.
In-Depth Analysis: The concentration of Xylazine in rural areas could suggest localized production or distribution networks. This veterinary drug is often misused as a booster for fentanyl, making its presence particularly concerning.
Importance for Law Enforcement: The geographical data on Xylazine can guide targeted enforcement efforts. Law enforcement agencies in the identified rural areas may need to ramp up surveillance and undercover operations to identify and dismantle Xylazine distribution networks.
Psilocin/Psilocybin
Data: GIS analysis shows that Psilocin/Psilocybin is mainly found in urban areas on the West Coast and in the Northeast.
In-Depth Analysis: This drug is becoming mainstream in the middle and upper class. More state and local legislatures are starting to legalize the drug, which will increase use amongst the community.
Importance for Law Enforcement: The spatial data on Psilocin/Psilocybin can help law enforcement agencies focus their efforts more effectively. Specialized units may need to concentrate on urban areas in the West Coast and Northeast.
Key Takeaways and the Path Forward
The NFLIS-Drug 2022 Annual Report provides an invaluable resource for law enforcement agencies, offering a comprehensive overview of the current drug landscape in the United States. From national and regional estimates to city-specific data, the report sheds light on the complexities and challenges that agencies face in combating drug-related activities.
Key Takeaways
Narcotic Analgesics: These remain the most commonly reported drugs, requiring targeted efforts to dismantle distribution networks.
Synthetic Cannabinoids: The significant rise in these substances calls for specialized training and intensified efforts to identify and dismantle production and distribution networks.
Multi-Drug Cases: The increase in cases involving multiple types of drugs adds layers of complexity to both the investigative and judicial processes.
Geographical Hotspots: Understanding these hotspots is essential for targeted law enforcement efforts, whether it's the spike in methamphetamine in the Midwest or the rise in synthetic cannabinoids in the Northeast.
City-Specific Data: The types of drugs prevalent in specific cities, such as synthetic cannabinoids in New York City or narcotic analgesics in Miami, offer insights for more localized, effective enforcement strategies.
The Importance of Staying Updated
For law enforcement agencies to be effective in their efforts to combat drug-related activities, staying updated on drug trends is not just beneficial—it's essential. The ever-changing landscape of drug types, distribution networks, and user demographics requires a dynamic approach to enforcement. Agencies must continually adapt their strategies, allocate resources wisely, and perhaps most importantly, invest in ongoing training and education for their officers.
By staying abreast of the latest trends and leveraging the data provided in reports like the NFLIS-Drug 2022 Annual Report, law enforcement agencies can be better equipped to make informed decisions, develop targeted strategies, and ultimately, create safer communities.
References
Cite the NFLIS-Drug 2022 Annual Report and any other sources you've used.