DRUG LEGALIZATION IS NOT THE SOLUTION

I have read with interest the recent "pro-legalization" letters. Generally,
I prefer to be "proactive" rather than "reactive," but enough is enough.

Those outside our community have criticized local drug prevention and
interdiction efforts. They've proclaimed alcohol prohibition a failure, and
predicted illicit drug prohibition efforts are sure to fail as well. The
Lindesmith Center, Drug Policy Foundation in Washington, D.C. has never
ever been a part of the federal government. The name is intended to confuse
people and try to lend legitimacy to the pro-legalization cause.

The most successful drug prevention and treatment strategies are
community-based.

Before seriously considering legalization of illicit drugs, we should look
at our track record for two legal drugs - alcohol and tobacco. Although
we're making progress, we've still not eliminated sales to underage youth
or eradicated the harm from the use and abuse of these products. What are
the prospects we can reduce the harm caused by illicit drugs just by
legalizing them?

Also, we should look at countries that have legalized drugs. There's no
evidence from these countries to indicate that legalizing drugs decreases
the negative social or health problems associated with drug use.

To the contrary, there is evidence to indicate that youth in these
countries begin experimentation and use at an earlier age and that the
onset of problems associated with use begins at an earlier age.

We must understand that there is no "silver bullet" when it comes to
substance abuse prevention, but certainly legalization is not an
option. We have made great strides in our community in reducing substance
use and abuse, providing early intervention, making treatment available and
providing interdiction. However, we must be vigilant and beware of
pro-legalization individuals and organizations who are not stakeholders in
our community.

Veronica Nunley, director ALERT Regional Prevention Center