Pubdate: Mon, 20 Jun 2005
Source: Charlotte Observer (NC)
Copyright: 2005 The Charlotte Observer
Contact:  http://www.charlotte.com/mld/observer/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/78
Author: Jim Champion
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

ONLY DECRIMINALIZATION WILL WIN WAR ON DRUGS

In response to "Let's win the war on drugs" (June 16 Feedback):John 
Emerson's entire argument hinges upon his assertion that "Legalization 
would only increase the crime rate." Twentieth-century U.S. history clearly 
demonstrates the opposite result. Prohibition was repealed not because the 
majority of voters used or wanted to use alcohol, but to reduce the 
horrific crime rate due solely to its illegal status.

It takes two blind eyes to our history to argue that the crime rate would 
increase as a result of the decriminalization of possession of minor 
amounts of intoxicating substances under similar legal controls as the 
various alcoholic beverages. These controls would further ensure purity of 
substances and reduce the spread of AIDS, hepatitis, etc.

Like many on opposing sides of an issue, we desire the same result. Mr. 
Emerson's recommended approach has proven over many decades to be a dismal 
failure, and frankly, inflames the ills we would heal. Maybe it's time to 
trust our history and citizenry and finally win this war.

Jim Champion

Matthews 
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MAP posted-by: Beth