Pubdate: Thu, 14 Jun 2007 Source: Northern Express (MI) Copyright: 2007 Northern Express Contact: http://www.northernexpress.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3079 Author: Howard J. Wooldridge Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) COPS AGAINST PROHIBITION As a retired police detective from Bath Township, Michigan (near Lansing), I read with interest your idea to increase tourist dollars by legalizing/regulating and taxing marijuana (a la Amsterdam-type coffeehaus). Thank you for your courage to propose such a sensible step. May I add another, perhaps more important aspect of ending marijuana prohibition? During my 18 years of police service I was dispatched to zero calls generated by the USE of marijuana. Its use is NOT a societal problem. I have always urged my fellow citizens to not use any mind-altering, intoxicating and addictive drug, which includes marijuana. However, having my profession still chasing the Willie Nelsons of Michigan does REDUCE public safety. Offr. Howard J. Wooldridge (ret.) education specialist, Law Enforcement Against Prohibition Washington, DC - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman