Distribution dispensaries, disorder, and crime: Examining the criminogenic effect of retail marijuana locations in Denver, Colorado

• In Event: Drugs: Markets and Policy Considerations

Abstract

In 2014, the state of Colorado legalized the recreational sale of marijuana to residents over the age of 18. Extending beyond the scope of prior medical legislation, the passing of amendment 64 in Colorado allowed for the sale of recreational marijuana at corner stores, street markets, and all licensed dispensaries. Little is known about the effect retail marijuana facilities have on crime, especially at localized units of analysis. This study will examine the potential criminogenic effect of marijuana dispensaries in Denver, Colorado by statistically analyzing the extent to which crime and disorder levels changed at the intersections and street segments associated with licensed dispensaries. The study will use propensity score matching to compare street units with a licensed dispensary to similar control street units without a marijuana facility. Longitudinal negative binomial regression models will be conducted to determine the criminogenic impact of retail marijuana legislation. The findings of this study will help to fill the research gaps surrounding the criminogenic effect of licensed dispensaries, the influence of retail marijuana locations on crime and disorder at micro-units of analysis, and will contribute to policy domestically and globally related to decriminalization.

Authors

• Nathan Connealy, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Eric L. Piza, John Jay College of Criminal Justice