CRIME CONTROL

To the editor:

One reason Sheriff Bill Young said he will not seek another term is
that "there's a lot of criminal element that has come here that has
made the town a little harder-edged" (Review-Journal, Wednesday).
Aggravated assault, auto theft and murder are all on the rise or at
historically high rates. This is because our police are compelled by
law to pursue thousands of marijuana users, most of whom would not
otherwise be criminals.

Under current law, a nominal fine is imposed for possession of small
amounts of marijuana. But every time the state collects that fine, a
police officer spends time filling out arrest reports. That time would
be better spent on the street pursuing more serious criminals.

This year's ballot initiative to regulate and tax small amounts of
marijuana for all users, not just the ones who get caught, would be
more effective at deterring use, generate more revenue and keep our
police on the street.

Brian Quade

Las Vegas