MARIJUANA SHOULD BE REGULATED FOR USAGE

Former DEA agent Robert Stutman expresses stern concern about the
fact that virtually all marijuana trafficking takes place behind
closed doors by unidentified and mysterious players (Speakers Debate
Pros, Cons Of Legalizing Marijuana, Oct 10). Some of that unmonitored
and unregulated commerce makes its way into the coffers of organized
criminals and on an international basis, possibly provides a modicum
of funding for terrorists.

Thanks, Mr. Stutman, you've just illustrated the major reason to
legalize marijuana. We need to remove commercial distribution from
the uncontrolled illegal market and take it off the streets.
Marijuana consumers would be happy to make their purchases from a
licensed, regulated dealer just as over 150 million Americans
currently do when purchasing the drugs of alcohol, tobacco and
pharmaceuticals. Legal drug dealers do not present undue danger to
police or to our neighborhoods. These dealers make their presence
known to police and regulators. They do not knowingly sell to or
recruit minors to sell their products.

They do not resolve business disputes with violence in our
neighborhoods against customers and rival dealers. We did not
legalize the distribution of alcohol in 1934 because everyone was
confused about the very real risks of using alcohol. We did it to
move sales off the streets and into a licensed, regulated setting.
It's time for an equally sensible change in the 21st century. It's
time to legalize marijuana for responsible adult use.

Respectfully,

Stephen Heath

Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, Florida Office