Trends and distribution of drug-related and associated events: A case study of Vilnius

Abstract. This case study provides an analysis on a concerning social issue in Lithuania. The author’s recent research suggests that the use of drugs in the country is on the rise. Often drug addiction is recognized as a serious public health concern, potentially leading to severe health disorders and toward a downward spiral in life that often correlates with increased criminal activity. Additionally, research has shown a possible link between incidents related to drugs and incidents related to other possible crimes. This case study specifically analyzed the spatial dispersion of drug-related and other crime related events in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania. The findings reveal that the highest concentration of drug-related incidents was recorded in the vicinity of the Roma tabor, which historically exhibited the highest incident rates in the city. Following the government’s decision to demolish the tabor in 2020, the area experienced an approximate 54% reduction in drug-related events. However, a subsequent increase in drug-related events was observed in several residential districts of Vilnius. Therefore, by examining the period before, during, and after the demolition of the tabor, the analysis provides valuable insights into the spatial patterns of events in Vilnius, Lithuania.