CLOVIS PANEL CRITICIZES JOHNSON

The Clovis City Commission says Gov. Gary Johnson's stance in favor of
legalizing drugs just makes it harder for law-abiding citizens to raise
their children.

The commission passed a resolution Thursday against Johnson's position,
saying it "is inconsistent with the views of our community and is at odds
with our unique heritage as New Mexicans." It also says Johnson's
conclusions on drug use "are based on anecdotal stories and not scientific
studies."

Johnson -- who calls the nation's war on drugs a failure -- has received
national attention for advocating legalization of drugs such as marijuana
and heroin. He argues that by legalizing drugs, billions of dollars now
spent on enforcement could be redirected to drug treatment and prevention.

His stance has drawn fire from law enforcement officers and elected
officials statewide.

Clovis' resolution said the governor's statements adversely impact law
enforcement officers as well as parents, teachers, clergy and community
leaders who try to teach children to be productive and responsible and
avoid drugs.

Luna County Sheriff Gary Ciccotelli of Deming, who is promoting drug
prevention awareness in the schools, said this week he backs more
sentencing for drug dealers and users, not less.

"I can't agree with him on this at all," he said.

"I believe there's no way we can legalize marijuana or any type of drug."