Pubdate: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 Source: Richmond Review, The (CN BC) Copyright: 2004 Richmond Public Library Contact: http://www.richmondreview.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/704 Author: Not published online Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada) HIT GROW RIPPERS IN THE POCKETBOOK How often do we hear about illegal stills, or "booze rippers" breaking into people's homes in search of alcohol? The answer is never, for the simple reason that alcohol is legalized for sale even though it is a drug that is harmful and addictive when abused. The profit margin for illegal alcohol production or sales is obviously too low to interest most criminals. In contrast, marijuana prohibition increases criminal activity, provides funds for criminal activity, and puts innocent families at risk from armed grow rippers who target the wrong house. We already have two somewhat socially acceptable, legal, controlled "recreational drugs"; I believe the time has come to add marijuana to the list and hit the criminals where it hurts: their pocketbooks. Name Not Published Online - --- MAP posted-by: Derek