Pubdate: Mon, 24 Sep 2001
Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press (MN)
Copyright: 2001 St. Paul Pioneer Press
Contact:  http://www.pioneerplanet.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/379
Author: J. Stephen Brown

DRUGS AND INNOCENCE

Paul Bischke of St. Paul argues that drug offenders are nonviolent and 
should be released in favor of less punitive alternatives (letter, Aug. 
30). What we are not hearing is how drugs are used to take advantage of the 
innocent, and overcome the resistance of the unsuspecting.

Men, women and children are bought, sold, rented or victimized to maintain 
or acquire them. Like ex-City Councilman Brian Herron, users become so 
addicted that they pawn property, borrow from family or friends, and steal 
from employers or the public. If you thought prison walls offer sanctuary 
to addicts from dealers (who may carry a badge), you are mistaken.

Drugs do violence by assaulting reality with a sensual or illusionary 
buffer that alters body chemistry and retards growth and potential. The 
penalty should fit the crime.

J. STEPHEN BROWN
Bayport
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