Pubdate: Fri, 31 Mar 2006 Source: Salmon Arm Observer (CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Salmon Arm Observer Contact: http://www.saobserver.net/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1407 Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v06/n369/a08.html Author: Kirk Muse DRUG WAR CAN'T BE WON I'm writing about Russell Barth's outstanding letter: "Drug prohibition absurd" in the March 24 Shuswap Market News. I noticed that at the end of his letter, Barth mentioned the organization known as: L.E.A.P. (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition). Four years ago, L.E.A.P. did not exist. Today they have more than 5,000 members who all 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 our drug war is counter productive and unwinnable? Could it be that they know from personal experience that our drug war is a complete and total waste of money? Could it be that they know from personal experience that arresting someone for a drug law violation often destroys that person's life? Kirk Muse - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake