Pubdate: Sun, 12 Sep 1999 Date: 09/12/1999 Source: Charlotte Observer (NC) Author: Aaron Michel In response to "Column overstates penalty for crack cocaine use" (Sept. 5 Forum): I would think that Ed Williams' Aug. 29 Viewpoint column ("Why is Bush dodging questions about cocaine?") would be an inviting opportunity for a senior official of the local U.S. attorney's office to share his viewpoint on youthful indiscretions and the law. After all, Kenneth D. Bell and his staff decide whom to target for grand jury investigations and make this decision for hundreds of potential targets each year, many of whom are guilty of youthful indiscretions. Instead, Mr. Bell apparently detects an attack on the right wing. George W. Bush's youthful indiscretions have passed the statute of limitations. No one is saying he should be prosecuted. However, in this district alone there have been federal prosecutions for youthful indiscretions. The primary difference between the defendants in these cases and Mr. Bush is that he had the money and connections to be treated with respect and dignity. It wasn't necessary to prosecute and take Mr. Bush into custody for supervision by the federal government in order for him to turn his life into something meaningful and self-fulfilling. I would like to think that our local federal officials see this and have the wisdom to not intervene unless it is absolutely necessary for the protection of the community. AARON MICHEL Charlotte