TROUBLE BUILDING A NEW LIFE AFTER DEALING DRUGS

While it may be common to encounter drug dealers resuming their trade
immediately upon release from jail, "Local drug use on rise," Feb. 18), I
disagree with officer Matt Adams' interpretation that greed underlies this
behavior. Such compulsiveness and indifference to consequences are classic
features of addiction; most such offenders probably are addicts resuming
drug habits which they finance by small-time dealing. This revolving door
illustrates why it is ineffective and inappropriate to criminalize
substance abuse and rely on the criminal justice system to address this
problem. Relationships between drug use, crime, and economic conditions are
complex, but stigmatizing minor drug offenders with criminal convictions
clearly diminishes their employability and earning potential. If good jobs
and good pay are antidotes to drugs and crime, isn't it counterproductive
to economically hamstring these individuals by moralistically imposing
criminal sanctions?

Mett Ausley, MD Lake Waccamaw, N.C.