FEDERAL PROGRAMS CREATING A MONSTER

I am glad to see that Sen . Dan Inouye has joined in the local fight against
the growing problem of crystal methamphetamine. His commentary in the Aug.
25 Focus section points out many of the dangers and problems associated with
this terrible scourge.

However, I believe that a basic point has been missed. The efficacy of the
Green Harvest and Federal Property Forfeiture programs have caused a market
condition where the more dangerous crystal meth is cheap and readily
available. This must be part of the public policy debate on the subject.

In no way should this be construed as an advocacy of the use of marijuana,
just a voice calling for a look at the problem from outside the box given
the heinous nature of crystal meth and the limited resources we bring to
bear.

Joseph Uno

Kailua