REFORM DRUG LAWS

Re "Prosecutorial excess?" editorial, June 19: I appreciated the editorial
on the injustice of giving first-time drug offenders 10-year sentences
under the Draconian federal mandatory minimum sentencing regime. It is well
past time to reform our drug sentencing scheme to return sentencing
decisions to the judges, so that the time can fit the crime; and to make
the criteria for sentencing be based, at least in part, on how much profit
the offender was likely to enjoy from his role in drug trafficking, so that
low-level "mules" and girlfriends of drug dealers aren't locked away for
most of their adult lives while authentic kingpins are allowed to walk.

- - Glenn Backes, MSW, MPH, Sacramento Director, California Capital Office,
Drug Policy Alliance

REWARDING CRIMINALS

Re "Modesto settles suit in child's death," June 20: Am I the only one who
thinks that the parents of the boy who was accidentally shot by the police
in a drug raid should not be given a settlement of more than $2.5 million?
There is no doubt that this boy's death was a tragic incident. However, his
father put him in danger by selling drugs. The blame for this tragedy is
clearly his, but instead he gets a reward. This does not make sense.

- - Sharon Baker, Roseville