A review copy of this case is available free of charge to educators and trainers. Please
create an account
or sign in
to gain access to this material.
Permission to Reprint
Each purchase of this product entitles the buyer to one digital file and use.
If you intend to distribute, teach, or share this item, you must purchase
permission for each individual who will be given access.
Learn more about
purchasing permission to reprint.
Abstract: A 1960s-style community activist returns to the Philadelphia of the 1980s to attempt to mobilize its black community to reject drugs and drug dealers. As Herman Wrice begins to organize all-night anti-drug vigils and other grassroots efforts, Philadelphia police must decide whether and how to help a growing organization at times given to harsh criticism of law enforcement. An eventual alliance leads to the creation of the Philadelphia anti-drug coalition. The group uses flamboyant symbols and methods to intimidate drug dealers and bring hope to beleaguered neighborhoods, though questions linger as to whether its effect depends too heavily on an individual leader.