Pubdate: Thu, 24 Feb 2005
Source: Shepherd Express (WI)
Copyright: 2005 Alternative Publications Inc.
Contact:  http://www.shepherd-express.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/414
Author: Christopher Gorski
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/prison.htm (Incarceration)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment)

PRISON DRUG TREATMENT

Joel McNally's Feb. 17 article, "Treatment Vs. Prison," on the treatment 
"alternative" for drug addicts/alcoholics in the Wisconsin correctional 
system makes a dire point toward the end: What if there were modes of 
treatment before one goes so far as to land in prison?

I'm glad this article was printed because this issue is very prominent in 
society as a whole.

It seems that the ideal goal of incarceration is to better society and the 
inmates. Substance addiction is at the center of crime, and thus the 
strongest force on the state of communities. The United States has been 
under the notion that if we take out the supply, it will strongly affect 
the demand. Truth is, that no matter how many coca plants we spray 
pesticides on, no matter how many poppy fields we burn, there will still be 
addicts.

If the states took on drug treatment headfirst, we'd see a significant 
change. It would affect poverty, education, disease and CRIME. A huge 
portion of people in prison is there because of drugs in one way or another.

Drugs are destroying our communities (especially in Milwaukee) and this 
issue definitely needs more light.

Again, thank you,

Christopher Gorski 
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MAP posted-by: Beth