DRUG USE AN EXCUSE FOR AVOIDING RESPONSIBILITY

In response to Christopher Perriera's Aug. 4 letter, Judge Joel August
seldom sentences anyone to a felony conviction. And on the rare occasion
that he does, who cares if it follows that person for the rest of their
lives. They deserve it! And why should Gov. Linda Lingle, or any government
official, fund a drug program paid by the taxpayers to keep deserving
individuals out of jail.

The only time drug users seek help for their addictions is when they are
faced with harsher punishment, and that is precisely why Act 161 does not
work. It does not rehabilitate. It is a tool used by drug-using, violent
repeat offenders to say, "It's not my fault; I'm a drug addict." I hope that
if I am ever assaulted or robbed, it is by someone who is not on drugs then
they won't have the option of using this get out of jail free card known as
Act 161.

Raymond Niemeyer

Kihei