DRUG WAR WREAKS HAVOC

In his Aug. 13 commentary, Office of National Drug Control Policy head
John Walters paints an ugly picture of the results of illicit drug use
in our community, replete with a sensationalistic example of one
family's tragedy ("Fight against drug abuse will be won at local level").

Like it? There is more to come. Walters, the latest point man in the
"War on Drugs," should know. He is a prime player and enabler in a
craven scheme with disastrous results for each of us.

Among a short list of the results of his "war" are: a burgeoning
prison population, more powerful drugs on our streets at ever-lower
prices, profit-driven corruption at all governmental levels in the
United States and internationally, families torn apart and lives
ruined as low-level users are imprisoned based on unsupported testimony.

Add untold pain and suffering among ill people who could benefit from
the palliative effect of "illicit" substances; relentless stigma
attached to addicts seeking care and preventing funding for that care.

TOM WELSH

Southeast Portland