DRUG ADDICT'S STORY NEEDED TO BE TOLD

Dear Editor:

I'd like to thank the Champion for its recent article entitled 'Held
hostage by drugs.'

I've been volunteering at Maplehurst Correctional Centre for more
than 15 years. I can say with experience that a predominant problem
among inmates is indeed drugs - whether it be the production and sale
of or the addiction to them - and in particular marijuana.

There was a period when there was a recognition among inmates that
marijuana was at least a contributor to their problems, but it seems
that view is changing. I would blame this on the move to legalize
marijuana and the lowered penalties for possession and production.

This is a growing problem, and the only way to counter it is to get
the truth out, which the Champion has done so well with its article
and addict-turned-anti-drug-advocate Paul Christie has devoted his life to.

God bless Mr. Christie and his new goals. And again thanks for the article.

Alan Herring

Milton