Confiscations, public health obstructions, and perpetual displacement: Experiences and perspectives on urban law enforcement practices during a period of “recriminalization” among people who use criminalized drugs

Key Points

• The research aims to examine how urban law enforcement practices affect individuals who use criminalized drugs amid changing drug policies.
• Qualitative interviews with people using criminalized drugs
• Analysis of law enforcement practices in urban environments
• Review of drug policy changes, particularly the Decriminalization Pilot
• Participants reported ongoing harassment and confiscation of belongings by law enforcement
• Law enforcement practices hindered public health efforts and support for drug users
• Perceptions of increased vulnerability among those using public spaces for survival