ANN LANDERS ON MARIJUANA

Dear Ann: I just got a phone call from my son. He said, "I've been arrested
for possession of marijuana with intent to sell it." I knew he had used
marijuana on occasion, but I'm sure he never tried to sell it.

A U.S. lawyer told me if someone is caught with marijuana, the police will
add intention to sell to the charges, even in the absence of supporting
evidence. People who criminalize marijuana believe that users are
dangerous addicts in dark trench coats, lurking near playgrounds, ready to
pounce on young children.

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

I don't approve of smoking grass or 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.

I plead for compassion for those who are hurting only themselves when they
use dangerous substances. What they need is counselling and medical
intervention, not prison. Plus, it costs a fortune in taxes to prosecute
and incarcerate people who pose no danger to society. Enough.

- -- A Sad Mother

Dear Sad Mother: I'm sad about your son's predicament. He will need the
help of a competent lawyer.

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.
A long stay in prison makes no sense whatsoever.