FIGHTING THE DRUG WAR

The editorial "Funding the drug war" on further aid to Colombia (Inquirer
May 24) states: "This shapes up as a close call - an expensive involvement
that doesn't come with a guarantee. ... It's a risk worth taking."

The information I have from those treating addictions is that dollars spent
for treatment are 15 to 20 times more effective than military solutions.

I would rather support spending funds for health care, including
mental-health programs, than a military solution that involves violence and
the approval of violence. The American people increasingly recognize that
violent behaviors must not be encouraged.

Charley Peterson, Newtown