Data Shows “Crime Reduction Effect” from Marijuana Legalization

According to data published in The Journal of Drug Issues, the legalization of recreational marijuana isn’t associated with an increase in crime in neighboring states.

Researchers from the University of Mississippi and the University of Utah conducted the study, NORML reported.

The study’s authors noted the data “suggests that recreational marijuana legalization in a state may not bring about negative consequences on crime in neighboring states, which challenges the assertions made by public officials in these neighboring states arguing a crime-inducing effect of legalization.”

In fact, the study also found a reduction in crime in some areas.

“Some evidence suggesting a spillover crime reduction effect of legalization, as reflected by the significant decreases in the rates of property crime, larceny, and simple assault in the Colorado region that includes six neighboring states,” the study reported.