MOTHER SAYS POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA DOESN'T DESERVE PRISON TIME

Dear Ann: I just got a phone call from my son. He said, "I've been arrested
for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute." I knew he had used
marijuana on occasion, but I'm sure he never tried to sell it. A lawyer told
me if someone is caught with marijuana, chances are the police will add
"intent to distribute," even in the absence of supporting evidence. The
accusation of intent changes the crime from a misdemeanor to a felony.

My son is a good kid who attends college and has a part-time job. He didn't
hurt anyone. He didn't steal anything. He didn't cheat anybody. He was
caught with marijuana for his own personal use, and for this, he could get
30 years in prison. He has never gotten so much as a parking ticket.

I don't approve of smoking grass, nor do I approve of smoking cigarettes or
drinking alcohol. But this punishment seems excessive. I can't help but
think of the thousands of families that have suffered this same horror.
These harsh laws hurt us all. People who criminalize marijuana believe that
users are dangerous addicts in dark trench coats, lurking near playgrounds,
ready to pounce on young children.

I plead for compassion for those who are hurting only themselves when they
use dangerous substances. What they need is counseling and medical
intervention, not prison. Harsh laws don't work. Furthermore, they cost us a
fortune in taxes to prosecute and incarcerate people who pose no danger to
society. Enough.

- -- A sad mother in Va.

Ann says: I'm sad about your son's predicament. If the police added ''intent
to distribute'' without real evidence, your son will need the help of a
competent lawyer who can get those charges dismissed.

I have long believed that the laws regarding marijuana are too harsh. Those
who keep pot for their own personal use should not be treated as criminals.
Thirty years in prison makes no sense whatsoever. I'm with you.