Pubdate: Fri, 23 May 2008 Source: Arizona Republic (Phoenix, AZ) Copyright: 2008 The Arizona Republic Contact: http://www.arizonarepublic.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/24 Author: Devon Engel PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN ON LEGALIZING DRUGS Regarding "They fight our war," (Editorial, May 13): It seems to me that the debate for legalization of drugs has been done; the people have spoken and they don't want legalization of drugs. While the number of police officers and others who have been killed in Mexico dealing with the drug cartels is unfortunate, just think of the tens of thousands of people who could lose their lives if using drugs is legalized. Reducing the demand for drugs is the way to go. Prevention is one of our best bets and we have made progress. Drug use is down here among our teens. Legalizing drugs would be a huge step backward when prevention has moved us and millions of people forward. Devon Engel, Scottsdale The writer is chairman, Partnership for a Drug-Free America, Arizona Affiliate. - --- MAP posted-by: Derek