Pubdate: Wed, 18 Apr 2001 Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution (GA) Copyright: 2001 Cox Interactive Media. Contact: http://www.accessatlanta.com/ajc/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/28 Author: Mike Holzknecht WAR ON DRUGS: U.S. DIDN'T LEARN FROM PROHIBITION Cynthia Tucker's criticism of drug-crime penalties and those who have criticized her since were both off target ("Fallen Atlanta officer: War on drugs not worth cost in lives," April 11). The prohibition of alcohol made half of all Americans lawbreakers overnight. Criminals bought the protection of police, judges and politicians with their illegal profits and compromised the integrity of our democracy. We have learned nothing and are making the same mistakes all over again. I hope that no one ever uses heroin, cocaine or marijuana. Prohibition's gift to modern society is organized crime. What gift are we giving to our children and grandchildren? MIKE HOLZKNECHT, Powder Springs - --- MAP posted-by: GD