EDUCATION, MORE DIALOGUE NEEDED ON DRUG PROBLEM

I am surprised that former DEA Special Agent Joseph L. Molyneux did not
raise the "heroin in the candy store" argument in his letter ("Agents make
the sacrifices in nation's `war on drugs,' " Jan. 9) about Michael Massing
and his book, "The Fix."

Contrary to Mr. Molyneux's statements, education is the key to solving the
drug problem. It should start with our knowing what we are talking about.

The drug war is a failure. It is time to end this self-destructive war on
our own people, starting with the repeal of marijuana prohibition.

We need open, honest and informed dialogue on drug law reform. I do not
condone or support drug abuse, but what we are doing today is destructive
and counterproductive.

Rob Ryan
Salisbury