CAREGIVERS NOT CRIMINALS

It is disappointing that local law enforcement officials have begun
using their limited resources to target caregivers such as Daniel
Ernst, the "Angel of Mercy," who provide needed medicine to patients
qualified under Oregon's medical marijuana law.

When a majority of voters agreed that there was a legitimate medical
use for cannabis, they did so with the understanding that many people
with disabilities and other medical conditions would have a
reasonable opportunity to obtain this natural medicine.

Since it has been documented that most providers need six months to a
year to produce and harvest a quality strain of the plant, Ernst has
in good faith assisted those who are, or those who claim to be,
suffering in our community by providing medicine for a small
donation. Ernst has served dozens of disabled residents as a
surrogate provider and hasn't used the law to profit, since all of
the donations collected have been used to obtain more medicine for
those in need.

As a community, we must send a clear message to the Eugene Police
Department, the district attorney and Judge Brian Hodges that, while
we do not support drug lords and profiteers, we do support and will
defend those who have clearly acted in the best interests of those in
pain.

Donald R. Bowmer

Eugene