Detection of Cannabis in Victims of Violent Death in Stockholm (1987–1994)

Abstract

During the eight-year period of 1987–1994, Cannabis was detected in 58 medicolegal postmortem investigations in Stockholm. In 17 cases, Cannabis was the only drug detected; in 41 instances it was combined with alcohol, heroin, or amphetamine. 54 of 58 deaths (93%) were violent. The percentage of suicides and homicides (i.e., intentional deaths) was highest among persons in whom only cannabis was detected (76.4%). By comparison, there were 22% suicides, 2% homicides, and 23% accidental death in all forensic autopsies in Sweden (47%). In Cannabis-related car accidents, reckless driving of cars at high speed and collision with other vehicles was the main cause of accidents. Violence directed toward other persons was not premeditated, and was carried out with intent to kill with whatever weapon was found, as a single stab or shot. Suicides related to Cannabis use were more violent and impulsive than suicides associated with other illicit drug use.