Pubdate: Wed, 10 Dec 2008
Source: Daily News Tribune (Waltham, MA)
Copyright: 2008 GateHouse Media, Inc.
Contact:  http://www.dailynewstribune.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3562
Author: Peter Christopher
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08.n1085.a09.html

PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN ON POT

I read with interest a telling missive by Norfolk County Anti-Crime
Task Force Director, Deputy Chief William G. Brooks 3rd, "How weed was
decriminalized" (Nov. 3), responding to a Massachusetts Election Day
referendum and wonder about his outrage when ONDCP spends scarce
taxpayer funds to promote his position despite what we know about the
extravagances of drug war?

Pointing the finger at well meaning philanthropy to help jump start
what we now find is the will of your people, almost 70 percent, is the
real travesty. Mr. Brooks, get used to it, the people have spoken and
it is also the sentiment of America.

America prohibited pot without any real scientific testimony, no
medical expertise and a media campaign based on bigotry three
generations ago. Meanwhile, science finds a host of medical conditions
that marijuana treats effectively and objective review finds it less
harmful than tobacco or alcohol products.

I ask Deputy Chief Brooks to contact LEAP, Law Enforcement Against
Prohibition, and have a visit with his colleagues to discuss
prohibition as law enforcement professionals and not drug war sycophants.

Peter Christopher

Hurdle Mills, N.C.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin