EMPTYING OUR PRISONS

Dear Editor

Letter writer Scott White is definitely on the right track. Current public
drug policy in both your country and mine brands anyone caught with an
illegal substance as a 'drug-abuser'. This is as flawed logically as
arresting all alcohol users and defining them as alcoholics. When our local
jails and prison systems are clogged by court convicted casual users,
overcrowding is inevitable.

Additionally, current policies mandate that even casual users and sellers
of illicit drugs - most notably marijuana - be thrust into the criminal
justice system. This uselessly ties up millions of tax dollars in a
supposed attempt to reduce the use of certain drugs. In fact, we've learned
such an approach will never significantly reduce use.

The obvious solution is to end drug prohibition and legalize drugs for
adults who use them responsibly, just as we do with the risky drug alcohol.
Those who exploit this freedom and allow access to minors or drive
automobiles while impaired, should feel the full weight of the law against
them. Those who are otherwise law-abiding, productive, tax-paying citizens
should be left alone.

Stephen Heath

Public Relations Director

Drug Policy Forum of Florida

Clearwater FL USA