Pubdate: Fri, 13 Jun 2008
Source: Langley Times (CN BC)
Copyright: 2008 Langley Times
Contact:  http://www.langleytimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1230
Author: Tony Smith

GANG ISSUE WILL ONLY GET MUCH WORSE

Editor: We are only just starting to see problems with our gangs. I am
certain that if we continue with the "War on Drugs," which make these
substances incredibly valuable to criminals, we should look to Mexico for
our future.

Gangs there recruit trained personnel from the military. With their
huge wealth, they have only the best of weapons. If the police ever
appear to start to be effective, they target and murder the officers
involved. If gang members are charged, the judge is given one option,
the bullet or the bribe.

Drugs have been illegal for about 90 years. They are more available
now than ever, prices are falling and strengths increasing. If we
measure success this way, how do we measure failure?

Our gangs deal with the Mexican gangs to purchase their drugs. It is
not a case of if they will use those tactics, but when.

Tony Smith,
Langley
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake