Everyone seems puzzled as to why two Appalachian State University students were killed recently during alleged drug deals ("Deadly dealings," Nov. 20). The answer is simple: "It's the prohibition, stupid," as might be stated by that great lawyer-philosopher, Arnold Trebach.

Drug prohibition is a product of the misguided religious moralists of the 19th century, and it is in large part not supported by medical facts. As long as this inflexible doctrine exists, people around the world and right here in North Carolina will continue to be killed, maimed, imprisoned and displaced in a senseless, endless war on personal freedom.

The only effective solutions are education and regulation of sales to adults similar to our current laws for alcohol. Until then, the tragedies brought by prohibition will continue to affect us all.

Pfafftown

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