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 - --- MAP posted-by: Rebel