A VICTIM OF SOCIETY

In all the news coverage about teacher Wardella Winchester's abduction and
murder, two important issues were missing: the war on drugs, and gun control.

Had cocaine not been illegal, it's likely that Winchester still would be
alive. The war on drugs makes drug trafficking profitable and dangerous.
Alcohol and cigarettes don't inspire this sort of behavior.

Moreover, Winchester would be no worse off--quite likely a lot better
off--if carrying concealed handguns were permitted in Illinois. Her
assailants apparently didn't search her; she was able to use her cell phone
to call 911 from the trunk of their car. Frankly, a loaded handgun would
have been a lot more useful to her.

I pray that Winchester's murderers are brought to justice. I also hope that
those who made her murder more likely--by promoting failed government
policies that have made this city a less-safe place to live--will be held
accountable in the court of public opinion.

Diane Carol Bast
Palatine