Pubdate: Wed, 17 Sep 2003
Source: Tampa Tribune (FL)
Section: Metro
Copyright: 2003, The Tribune Co.
Contact:  http://www.tampatrib.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/446
Note: Limit LTEs to 150 words
Author: Rick Meredith

PROHIBITION IS PROBLEM

Where were you when Noelle Bush got busted for drugs? And would you feel 
the same way about this situation if one of the lost souls mentioned in the 
Sept. 13 editorial were one of your children? Probably not. Jeb Bush didn't.

You need to check the facts. First of all, what ruins neighborhoods is the 
black market that prohibition created, not the drugs. Second, every study 
that has ever been done shows the same end results. Dollar for dollar, 
treatment is cheaper and works better than incarceration. Third, if these 
poor lost souls are convicted and go to prison rather than receive 
treatment, we all lose. Prisons teach prisoners one thing: how to be better 
criminals.

RICK L. MEREDITH, Wesley Chapel
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager