Martin Sheen has Proposition 5 all wrong ("A costly, dangerous drug treatment initiative," Viewpoints, Sept. 5). It will not, as Sheen insinuates, legalize auto theft, identity theft or any crimes involving victims. It will help keep drug "offenders" out of jail by fixing an overly punitive parole system. Neither Sheen's celebrity nor his hyperbole will be able to thwart this sensible initiative. Peter Keyes, Sacramento [end]
Re "Smokescreen of medical pot clouds view of the dangers," Forum, Nov. 12: DEA agent Gordon Taylor needs to lighten up on some of society's most vulnerable citizens -- patients who benefit from doctor-approved cannabis. He wrote a commentary disseminating much medical advice, but only physicians are qualified to do that. The Institute of Medicine states, "cientific data indicate the potential therapeutic value of cannabinoid drugs, primarily THC, for pain relief, control of nausea and vomiting, and appetite stimulation." The United Kingdom classifies marijuana as a soft drug, punishable for personal amounts by a simple warning. The United States should emulate Europe. And Taylor should help our sick and dying people live, not seek to imprison them. - - Peter Gabriel Keyes, Sacramento [end]
Re "Indoor pot farms catch on in suburban settings," May 19: Residents who suspect their neighbors may be growing pot should live and let live. If they call the police, they may be participating in the persecution of sick and dying people. Many folks with cancer, AIDS, MS and a host of other life-threatening illnesses grow cannabis in their homes. In some cases, the herbal medicine is the only thing keeping the patient alive. Please do not contact Crime Alert if you have evidence of marijuana growing. Chances are the cultivators are depending on the weed to keep them alive. Peter G. Keyes, Sacramento [end]
Re: Police officials question move (May 28, Sentinel-Review). Oxford OPP detachment commander Jack Goodlett has it all wrong about pot prohibition laws. Increasing penalties for cultivation will exasperate the violence associated with cannabis criminalization. The Senate was right. Canada should legalize cannabis. Peter Keyes Teachers Against Prohibition El Dorado Hills, Calif. [end]
