Pubdate: Sun, 17 Jan 2016
Source: Tampa Bay Times (FL)
Copyright: 2016 St. Petersburg Times
Contact: http://www.sptimes.com/letters/
Website: http://www.tampabay.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/419
Note: Named the St. Petersburg Times from 1884-2011.
Author: John G Chase
Page: P2
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v16/n022/a10.html

BENEFITS OF CHANGING THE LAW

Decriminalization of marijuana is coming as a refreshing breeze. We 
Americans deal ourselves a triple whammy when we enforce a law that 
makes a felony of behavior that is not criminal.

First, there is the waste of taxpayer money to enforce that law. 
Second, there's the loss to society of contributions the felon would 
have made if he had not been fighting the charge. Third, there's the 
loss of respect by the public for a criminal justice system that 
focuses on small offenses.

And there is a fourth reason, seldom mentioned. Under 
decriminalization, prosecutors will be less able to threaten an 
arrestee with a felony record to force that person to assist in 
arresting other violators. Such undercover work is dangerous and best 
left to professionals.

John G. Chase, Palm Harbor
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom