Pubdate: Thu, 27 Sep 2012
Source: Austin American-Statesman (TX)
Copyright: 2012 Austin American-Statesman
Contact: http://www.statesman.com/default/content/feedback/lettersubmit.html
Website: http://www.statesman.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/32
Author: Robert Sharpe

DRUG WAR FUELS CRIME

Re: Sept. 23 article, " Film spies on final rest of capos."

Mexican cartel violence is a direct result of drug prohibition. 
Attempts to limit the supply of illegal drugs while demand remains 
constant only increase the profitability of drug trafficking. For 
addictive drugs like heroin, a spike in street prices leads desperate 
addicts to increase criminal activity to feed desperate habits.

The U.S. drug war doesn't fight crime, it fuels crime. Taxing and 
regulating marijuana, the most popular illicit drug, is a 
cost-effective alternative to never-ending drug war. As long as 
marijuana distribution is controlled by drug cartels, consumers will 
continue to come into contact with hard drugs such as 
methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin. Marijuana prohibition is a 
gateway drug policy.

Robert Sharpe

Arlington, Va.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom