LEGALIZED METHAMPHETAMINE WOULD STILL CREATE SOCIAL PROBLEMS

Editor:

I have been listening to arguments that suggest legalizing
methamphetamine would solve the methamphetamine problem -- like the
legalization of alcohol solved the alcohol problem. Anyone who thinks
alcohol is not a problem in our culture is not paying attention or is naive.

I have watched as marijuana has been decriminalized and partially
legalized in various states. I have given considerable thought to the
argument that black markets are caused by prohibitions against
certain items, i.e., drugs, alcohol, guns. I have considered the
psychological ramifications of telling people "No." When we teach our
children they must say "No," it is those things we tell them not to
do that they inevitably must try.

Methamphetamine addicts cannot hold a job, yet they need dope. The
only way to get the money after they lose their jobs is through
burglary, fraud, identity theft, prostitution or becoming a dealer.
Some of them exploit their own children to get money for the drug.

My point is that legalization is not the answer. If we legalize meth,
it wouldn't help the social problems associated with it. People would
still be addicted, unable to hold a job, and in need of money to buy
it legally. What would they do? Lie, cheat, steal, prostitute
themselves and murder one another as they currently do. If they could
buy "homemade" meth cheaper than the meth at the corner drug store,
would they do it? Sure, so the drug would still be manufactured
unsafely by dealers who would undercut the government-regulated
industry. The justice and social systems would still be in no danger
of extinction.

My mind is not closed to change, but I need to be convinced that
decriminalization of drugs is the best way to protect society. Letter
writer David Cox and others have posed some interesting questions,
but I perceive the answers to them are not easily discovered.

CARROLL QUARLES

Chief Palisade Police Department

Palisade