Pubdate: Thu, 08 Dec 2005
Source: Arbiter, The (Boise State, ID Edu)
Copyright: 2005 The Arbiter
Contact:  http://www.arbiteronline.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3516
Author: Kirk Muse
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v05/n1915/a03.html

SO, LET THE CRIMINALS CONTROL THE DRUGS?

I'm writing about Brandon Stoker's not-so-thoughtful opinion "Shoot
this idea up."

My question for Stoker: Why does he want recreational drugs to remain
completely unregulated, untaxed and controlled by criminals? Only
legal products of any kind can be regulated, controlled and taxed by
any government.

Norm Stamper is the former Chief of Police of Seattle, Wash. and a
member of LEAP (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition). Four years ago,
LEAP didn't exist. Today they have more than 4,500 members who are
current or former drug warriors (Law enforcement personnel, DEA
agents, judges and prosecutors).

Why do so many current and former drug warriors want to end our drug
prohibition policies? Could it be that they know from personal
experience that the drug war is counterproductive? Could it be that
they know from personal experience that the drug war is
un-winnable?

Kirk Muse

Mesa, Ariz.
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