Pubdate: Sun, 27 Nov 2005
Source: Scarborough Mirror, The (CN ON)
Copyright: 2005 The Scarborough Mirror
Contact:  http://www.insidetoronto.ca/to/scarborough/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2198
Author: Dan Hemphill

DRUG USE, GUN CRIME LINKED

I disagree with police and municipal politicians that we have an 
out-of-control gun problem in the GTA. What we have is an 
out-of-control illegal drug use problem.

Using guns is a convenient and effective way for drug dealers and 
gangs to mark or claim their territory - hence business. The fact 
that the shooters and their victims are often known to police should 
tell you something.

Drug dealers and users are not going to report a ripoff to the police 
for an illegal transaction - so they enforce the police's law and order.

There wouldn't be drug dealers if there were no drug users. If you 
get rid of the users, you get rid of the dealers and the use of guns. 
This is the issue that should be addressed by the lawmakers.

Dan Hemphill
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman