Pubdate: Tue, 22 Jul 2003 Source: Wisconsin State Journal (WI) Copyright: 2003 Madison Newspapers, Inc. Contact: http://www.wisconsinstatejournal.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/506 Author: Gary Storck Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n1083/a05.html LEGALIZE POT TO REDUCE VIOLENCE In the article detailing another marijuana prohibition-linked tragedy, "Two Men To Be Charged In Murder" (Wednesday), Robb Hale, the cases lead investigator is quoted, "This was a tragedy that should not have occurred." Hale is correct. Were it not for the fact that marijuana prohibition has made a humble weed more valuable than gold, Nathaniel Divine would still be alive while Ben Napier and Tekeith Tate would not be facing spending the rest of their lives locked away in prison at a cost to taxpayers approaching $30,000 per year. The United States experienced similar violence during alcohol prohibition. Once it was repealed, the violence disappeared. Marijuana prohibition-related murders have become a regular occurrence in Madison. Lawmakers allow this carnage to continue by failing to regulate marijuana like alcohol and tobacco. And everyone pays for it. Gary Storck, Madison - --- MAP posted-by: Josh