Pubdate: Tue, 07 May 2002
Source: New York Times (NY)
Section: Science, Letters
Copyright: 2002 The New York Times Company
Contact:  http://www.nytimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/298
Author: Kevin M. Hebert
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n826/a06.html

MARIJUANA AND CRIMINALITY

To the Editor:

"For Some, Marijuana Grows Mean" (April 30) cites one youth who has 
difficulties with marijuana and has been under the care of the 
writer/doctor for over nine years.

One kid. I feel bad for him. But what about the millions who use pot 
regularly and never develop these "reefer madness" symptoms?

The real problem is that we throw millions of loyal Americans in jail for 
using a substance less harmful than alcohol or tobacco. Marijuana can cause 
problems in a handful of users, but this should not justify subjecting so 
many to the horrors of prison.

KEVIN M. HEBERT

Chicopee, Mass.
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