Pubdate: Mon, 12 May 2014
Source: Sun-Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
Copyright: 2014 Sun-Sentinel Company
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/mVLAxQfA
Website: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/159
Author: Chuck Drago
Page: 10A

SHERIFF SCOTT ISRAEL GOT IT RIGHT

I want to commend Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel for the courage 
to stand up for what he believes in, even though it put him at odds 
with the Florida Sheriff's Association.

When I learned the state association decided to fight the 
legalization of medical marijuana, I felt as if I had returned to the 
1970s. It troubles me when I see law enforcement trying to tell the 
community what is good for them. This is especially troubling when we 
consider that the legalization of medical marijuana is a medical 
issue, and not a police issue. If the medical community believes 
marijuana will help people - and the people of this state want to 
legalize it - then how dare these law enforcement officers tell 
people what's good for them?

Sheriff Israel got it right when he said, "I think this is something 
that's left to the people of the state of Florida." I only hope other 
sheriffs and police chiefs pay attention and appreciate true 
leadership when they see it.

Chuck Drago, former Fort Lauderdale assistant police chief, Oviedo
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom