DRUG CRIMINALS NEED REHAB, NOT JAIL TIME

One way the Cabell County Commission could ease the overcrowding of
the jail would be to stop filling up the jail with people who use drugs.

I was in jail not long ago and a person who sold crack cocaine to an
undercover police officer is serving a sentence of six months, and a
person who is charged with battery and destruction of property does
two years on home confinement.

It is ridiculous that taxpayers should pay for a bill when jailing
these individuals simply doesn't win a war on drugs. The so-called
"war on drugs" will never be won at this rate. You jail people for the
winter time and by the summer, they are out doing whatever puts food
on their tables.

So if you think you are actually doing society a favor, look at the
statistics and the shape your budget is in. If there were more drug
rehabilitation services around, perhaps your endeavors would not be in
vain.

The Cabell County Courthouse is like a big family reunion. You won't
get a big piece of chicken unless your aunt or brother is serving the
food. Everyone owes everyone a favor there.

If a problem needs fixed, then fix it. Don't make it worse by putting
people in jail who simply have poor judgement.

DEE SMITH

Huntington