PROP. 36: BAD PRESCRIPTION

I have been a police officer for 27 years (12 years in narcotics). During
my career, I have dealt with thousands of drug addicts and testified as an
expert in state and federal courts.

I know addicts must commit crimes on a daily basis to feed their habits.
The majority of these crimes, ranging from robbery to petty theft, are
never solved. Locally, addicts are responsible for hundreds of thousands of
dollars in property loss. Passage of Proposition 36 will only increase
losses to law-abiding citizens. I am not opposed to drug treatment; just
the irresponsible approach taken by Proposition 36.

A recent letter in The Californian proposed drug treatment for first time
offenders who possess drugs for their personal use. The writer was
apparently unaware of existing statewide policy. Currently these offenders
are, almost without exception, given "drug diversion" -- a treatment
program that provides counseling and support. Upon successful completion of
drug diversion, criminal charges are dismissed. Under Proposition 36,
offenders would have three civil cases before any criminal action could be
taken. This would leave addicts on the street, free to re-offend.

Even if incarceration does cost more, it seems a worthwhile investment in
the safety of our community and our families.

Gregg Bender, Bakersfield