The evaluation report on the procedural activity of CDT, from the Institute for Addictive Behaviors and Dependencies (ICAD), indicates the number reflects CDT’s commitment to quickly addressing new cases, reinforcing their central role in early intervention with psychoactive substance consumers.
The remaining 1,117 hearings involved processes carried over from previous years.
The annual CDT report shows that 89% of the cases opened in 2024—61% already archived—underwent proceedings, reflecting improved efficiency with only 11% pending, a figure significantly lower than the previous year.
Most rulings were suspensive in nature, favoring non-punitive measures tailored to the consumption profile of the individuals, such as periodic presentations or referrals to specialized services.
Law enforcement agencies, particularly GNR (44%) and PSP (18%), remained the primary channels for reporting cases, while judicial authorities (38%) played an increasing role due to recent legislative changes.
The report also indicates a reduction in cases involving heroin (-31%) and cocaine (-15%), reflecting changes in consumption habits reported.
The sociodemographic profile of the individuals remains stable, predominantly male, young people between 16 and 29 years old, singles, and with education at the secondary or lower educational levels.
Data also reveals a majority of non-dependent consumers (73%), indicators that reflect CDTs’ early intervention with younger individuals, but there is an increase in the age group above 30 years, suggesting changes in consumption patterns reported.
About half of the 10,211 individuals have regular employment, with the rest distributed between unemployed and students, with a marked decrease noted in the latter.
CDTs emphasize they continue to favor non-monetary sanctions, particularly periodic presentation at a designated location, mainly for non-dependent individuals.
In terms of referrals, 90% of technical interventions resulted in referrals to specialized services in the field of addictive behaviors, ensuring an integrated response and continuity of care for the majority of individuals.
ICAD adds that the year 2024 reinforces the “maturity of the Portuguese model” of deterrence, with a qualified intervention focused on individuals and guided by technical and humanistic criteria, promoting reintegration and public health.
