LAW MORE DAMAGING THAN DRUG

Maybe the drug case against Damon Stoudamire gives us an opportunity to
rethink our drug policies. He's a highly successful and respected member of
society in spite of his possible use of marijuana. How can this be? We've
been told that marijuana ruins lives.

Stoudamire's life seems to be just fine. If he enjoys marijuana now and
then, it seems to have no negative effect. If he doesn't use it, then why
is the legal system after him? It looks to me like the law is more damaging
than the drug.

It's time to legalize and control the production, sale and use of
marijuana. For a change, let's try pragmatism and tolerance. Let's stop
filling our jails with people who don't belong there.

DONALD BERG
Southwest Portland