Pubdate: Thu, 07 Jun 2012 Source: Peace Arch News (CN BC) Copyright: 2012 Peace Arch News Contact: http://www.peacearchnews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1333 Author: W. A. Riede BIG DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DRUGS Editor: Re: Legalizing pot only a next step, May 29. To suggest legalizing marijuana is the same as legalizing crack, heroin or crystal meth is ridiculous. Perhaps letter-writer Jim Simpson should acquaint himself with some of those who use the aforementioned drugs so that he can recognize the differences in the general behaviour of those under the influence. There have been many studies done on marijuana by academics and the general consensus is that it is not nearly as dangerous or costly to the public as alcohol. To suggest that homicide will be legalized because we have lost the war on it is probably one of the most moronic statements I have ever read. He does, however, make one point and that is that those presently involved in illegal marijuana trafficking will find other illicit endeavours. That has nothing to do with marijuana, however, but rather the life choices of those involved in illegal endeavours. W. A. Riede, Surrey - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom