Examining the prevalence of drug use within the context of homicide investigations in Malta

Abstract

This study explores the intricate relationship between substance use and violent crime, particularly homicides, by looking at the prevalence of drug use in homicide investigations in Malta. Research shows that while drug use alone hardly leads to homicide, it can worsen aggression, reduce inhibitions, and impair judgment, all of which raise the risk of violent outcomes. Participants underlined that alcohol and drugs, especially cocaine, greatly enhance risks and are frequently associated with impulsive behaviour in interpersonal or domestic disputes. Interestingly, spontaneous homicides often entailed substance-fueled anger, whereas premeditated homicides were less associated with immediate intoxication. It was also determined that psychological factors, including emotional distress, mental illness and trauma, were significant underlying causes. The study provides additional legal and investigative insights. Under Maltese Law, perpetrators are charged with both drug possession and homicide. However, involuntary intoxication may lessen the severity of their punishment. According to toxicology data, cocaine was most frequently found in homicide cases, whereas cannabis was rarely found to be a contributing factor. Based on Goldstein’s tripartite framework, the research looks into psychopharmacological, economic-compulsive and systemic violence dynamics to determine whether drugs directly cause or contribute to homicide. To collect this data, semi structured interviews were carried out with two members of the Malta Police Force who were assigned to the Major Crime Unit. Since all the information gathered is based on professionals’ perspectives, a qualitative analysis was thought to be the most suitable approach. All interviews were transcribed and put through a thematic analysis, yielding several themes. The findings of this study aligned with those found in existing relevant research literature.