Pubdate: Fri, 01 May 2009
Source: Calgary Herald (CN AB)
Copyright: 2009 Canwest Publishing Inc.
Contact: http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/letters.html
Website: http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/66
Author: David Bratzer
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v09/n474/a10.html

IT'S A START

Re: "Keeping pot illegal leads to bad brew," Rob Breakenridge, Opinion, 
April 28.

I agree with many of Rob Breakenridge's arguments.

 From my perspective as a police officer, it is clear that organized
crime groups reap enormous tax-free profits from their monopoly over
the supply of illegal drugs.

Also, there is no legitimate dispute resolution mechanism for drug
dealers.

The predictable result is sporadic, intense violence over control of
the black market.

This does not happen when harmful substances are legal but regulated.
When was the last time you saw the managers of two neighbourhood pubs
shooting at each other in the streets?

Many addicts commit property crimes to get money for heroin, cocaine
and other illegal drugs. They find themselves on an endless cycle that
involves the police, the courts, jail, the street and the local hospital.

Drug prohibition increases police call load while decreasing officer
and public safety.

Drug abuse belongs to public health, rather than the criminal justice
system. It is important to proceed cautiously, based on pilot
projects, public consultation and scientific evidence.

Legalizing drugs will not solve all the problems, but it will reduce
crime, increase tax revenues and launch an economic war against
organized crime.

Please note that my opinions are my own, and they do not represent my
employer.

David Bratzer,

Victoria, B. C. 
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D