Pubdate: Fri, 27 May 2011 Source: Los Angeles Times (CA) Copyright: 2011 Los Angeles Times Contact: http://www.latimes.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/248 Author: Matt Horns OUTSIDE THE PRISON BOX Re "No easy fix for state prison crisis," May 25 An easy fix is staring us in the face, but it is largely ignored because most people are paralyzed by irrational fears. Legalize drugs, prostitution and gambling, and crime rates will plummet. Go yet another step and legalize carrying concealed weapons by law-abiding citizens who have passed rigorous background checks and firearm training programs. Crimes will drop even further. Many of the prisons can then be converted to drug rehabilitation centers and homeless shelters. Only then can we evolve beyond California's current pathetic drug, crime and homelessness situation. Matt Horns Los Angeles - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake