DRUG PUNISHMENT

After reading "The Agony Of Ecstasy" in the June 22-28 issue of the
Tribune, I thought I might be able to shed some light on this subject.

First of all, I say that the article is well written, and very factual and
informative. I used to do counseling for a drug-abuse program, and from
what I remember about this drug, the article is true to the facts.

Although we know quite a bit about the drug, its side effects, where to
purchase it, what it contains, and what neighborhoods attract it, why can't
we be more informed about the drug dealers, and their contacts. I can't
believe that our police and narcotics bureau are not able to put a wrench
into the machine that supplies this substance to this country.

Furthermore, I truly believe that a fitting and just punishment for being
caught with this or any drug is a simple one - "Whatever you are caught
with on your person, you must ingest immediately, in full, on the spot."
This sounds like a severe punishment, but it would certainly make dealers
and users think twice before selling or using drugs, don't you agree?

In any case, drug use and dealing is a sore subject with me, and I
certainly believe that more time and money must be appropriated to make
sure these drugs do not reach our youth. Otherwise, what will the future
hold? Just a bunch of drugged out people who would not be able to run this
country the way it needs to be run.

Joseph R. Maligieri
College Point