Victimless crime
- Crimes without victims
- Crimes against public morality
Claim
Victimless crime has no reason to be defined as criminal because it does not cause harm to anybody, other than perhaps to the perpetrator.
Counter-claim
Past attitudes tended to absolve drug users of any responsibility for their actions. Today drug abuse is no longer considered a "victimless" crime; it is a crime that imposes a staggering burden on the people and the nations of the world. Use of illegal drugs is associated with increases on crime, drug-related automobile accidents and work accidents, learning disabilities and other mental health problems, family disruption, and health problems. The illicit production, distribution and consumption of drugs have intimidated and corrupted public servants, and have even destabilized Governments. The erratic ebb and flow and sheer volume of "drug money" have affected the money supply and exchange markets. Individuals, particularly those who promote drug-taking by others, must be held accountable for their actions.