TIGHTER METH LAWS ARE NEEDED

Please vote "yes" on Proposition 301, which
would tighten probation-eligibility standards for those convicted of
certain meth crimes.

Currently, meth-users are sentenced to probation and substance-abuse
programs but many times do not start or complete the programs. They
are scheduled for court dates to explain why, but they do not appear.

"Failure to appear" warrants are issued but go unnoticed. Many times
the warrants get lost in the system. Just like all the "failures to
appear" associated with the meth user, the current system is a
failure. It depends on the user making an effort. That's not going to happen.

The best solution is to lock up the user for 30 days. Put them in a
separate lockup that offers a program for them. I think it will be a
wake-up call when they see new detainees come in after they have been
clean for three weeks. They would have "before" and "after" pictures
of themselves.

They need to know they have the potential to contribute to the good
of society. They just need good counseling in a drug free environment.

I urge you to vote "yes" on Proposition 301 and push legislation for
"in jail" drug-abuse programs.

Maria Santos,

Glendale