Pubdate: Sun, 14 Aug 2005 Source: Edmonton Journal (CN AB) Copyright: 2005 The Edmonton Journal Contact: http://www.canada.com/edmonton/edmontonjournal/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/134 Author: Jim Church PENALTIES FOR DRUGS AREN'T SUFFICIENT The fact that Justice Minister Irwin Cotler is not willing to impose minimum sentences on those who make or distribute "crack" shows that, while he wants to look like he's tough on crime, he continues to give the judiciary too much leeway in sentencing. If he is truly concerned about the devastating effects of this drug on the youth of our land then he should start with a minimum of 10 years! Unless there are minimum sentences judges will continue to give drug dealers a slap on the wrist. Jim Church Peace River - --- MAP posted-by: Beth