WAR ON DRUGS: U.S. DIDN'T LEARN FROM PROHIBITION

Cynthia Tucker's criticism of drug-crime penalties and those who have
criticized her since were both off target ("Fallen Atlanta officer: War on
drugs not worth cost in lives," April 11).

The prohibition of alcohol made half of all Americans lawbreakers
overnight. Criminals bought the protection of police, judges and
politicians with their illegal profits and compromised the integrity of our
democracy. We have learned nothing and are making the same mistakes all
over again.

I hope that no one ever uses heroin, cocaine or marijuana. Prohibition's
gift to modern society is organized crime. What gift are we giving to our
children and grandchildren?

MIKE HOLZKNECHT,

Powder Springs