Pubdate: Wed, 17 Jun 2009
Source: Edmonton Sun (CN AB)
Copyright: 2009 Canoe Limited Partnership.
Contact:  http://www.edmontonsun.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/135
Author: Jeremy Loome
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?199 (Mandatory Minimum Sentencing)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

MANDATORY MINIMUMS PLAN FOOLISH

The federal government is foolish in pursuing mandatory minimum 
sentences for drug dealers.

It simplistically parrots the antiquated assumption that any 
anti-drug policy will instantly garner wide public support; it shows 
federal politicians to be dreadfully out of touch with the Canadian public.

Though the results of opinion surveys vary, few, if any, show 
majority support for the failed "war on drugs", which costs taxpayers 
billions -- yes, billions -- of dollars annually without lowering 
availability or use.

In fact, as dozens of studies have concluded, attempting to "ban" 
drug consumption props up a black market for Canada's criminal 
organizations, which make most of their profits off outrageous market 
markups, then fight bloody turf wars over the enormous proceeds.

Secondly, the proposed federal law comes as U.S. states are repealing 
mandatory minimum sentencing because it doesn't work. Criminals don't 
fear jail time, so it's not much of a deterrent. And while Canada's 
proposals aren't worded as broadly as U.S. initiatives, they'll still 
accomplish nothing, but cost a lot.

Third, there are many areas of existing law that could be toughened 
up first. Sentencing guidelines for manslaughter in Canada are so 
low, first-time offenders can be out in two years. Victims' rights to 
involvement during prosecution lag behind where they should be, as do 
compensatory and counselling services.

Canada could also toughen provisions allowing the indefinite 
confinement of repeat child sex offenders, to weed pedophiles out of 
society and held until a cure is found.

Fourth, Canada's jails are beginning to mirror the overcrowded, 
ridiculous U.S. system, which jails more citizens per capita than 
China and North Korea.

Mandatory minimums are irrational, cheap public gestures that will 
not help make Canadian streets safer.

Legalizing, controlling and distributing drugs in the same manner as 
alcohol would, overnight, create enormous economic stimulus and badly 
hurt gangs. It's an easy choice, in the real world. In politics? Not so much.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom