MICHIGAN CITY -- The rugged lanky figure in cowboy hat and spurs making his way along U.S. 12 atop a horse isn't a common sight, especially through Gary, Porter and Michigan City.

The message former Michigan police officer Howard Woolridge carries isn't usual either.

"Cops say legalize drugs; ask me why," his T-shirt invites.

Woolridge, 54, is co-founder of the not-for-profit group Law Enforcement Against Prohibition or LEAP, and is making his way from Los Angeles to New York on horseback, passing through the region this weekend.

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