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
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