Pubdate: Sun, 19 Feb 2006
Source: Des Moines Register (IA)
Copyright: 2006 The Des Moines Register.
Contact:  http://desmoinesregister.com/index.html
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/123
Author: Carl Olsen
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

ILLEGAL CRIME

Johnson County Sheriff Lonny Pulkrabek's suggestion to decriminalize 
possession of small amounts of marijuana was met with "reefer 
madness" from state Rep. Clel Baudler (Feb. 9, "Sheriff: Tie Penalty 
to Pot Amount"), who stated, "It sends the message that "OK, if you 
are just a little crook, we're not going to really bother you.' "

Isn't that like saying it's a crime because it's illegal? I guess 
it's only OK with Representative Baudler to suggest increasing the penalties.

You would think a law-enforcement official would know what 
constitutes a serious crime. State legislators need to realize that 
law-enforcement resources are limited. Jails should be a place for 
people who represent an immediate danger to others.

What I can't figure out is why legislators love alcohol and hate 
marijuana. What is so wonderful about alcohol, other than the money 
the alcohol manufacturers spend on legislators' campaigns?

- - Carl Olsen

Des Moines.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman