HUMANE DRUG-CONTROL MEASURES

Re: "Failure of war on drugs opens way for new strategy" by Joe Amon
(Insight, Nov. 21)

The evidence supporting Amon's indictment of the "war on drugs" is
valid. The prosecution and jailing of drug users does nothing to cure
addiction and protect drug-user health: It further wrecks young
lives, often converting drug users into more hardened criminals. Amon
is right in saying we should decriminalize drug use and make
treatment readily available. That is what the Portuguese are doing,
and it works to reduce drug use, addiction and all related health and
social pathologies.

Amon's evidence doesn't support legalizing drugs' manufacture and
sale. The Portuguese have not done that, and their experience proves
that it's not necessary to do so. We in America should reform drug
control in a manner consistent with consumer protection philosophy.
Instead of treating drug users as criminals, treat them for what they
are - victims of criminals who manufacture and sell drugs, tricking
young people to experiment with these health-destroying substances.
Your readers can learn more about rational, humane, and effective
drug control measures at www.pdpi.org/.

Donald C. Smart, Oakland