Pubdate: Mon, 25 Sep 2006
Source: Calgary Sun, The (CN AB)
Copyright: 2006 The Calgary Sun
Contact:  http://www.calgarysun.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/67
Author: Robert Sharpe, Policy Analyst, Common Sense for Drug Policy
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v06/n1246/a07.html
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v06/n1259/a04.html
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v06/n1272/a03.html

HOW SHOULD CALGARY RESPOND TO ILLEGAL METHAMPHETAMINE USE?

I Write regarding Licia Corbella's "Stop meth her message," column (Sept. 19).

How Should Calgary Respond To Illegal Methamphetamine Use?

Here in the U.S., New York City chose the zero-tolerance approach 
during the crack epidemic of the 1980s, opting to arrest and 
prosecute as many offenders as possible.

Meanwhile, Washington, D.C., Mayor Marion Barry was smoking crack and 
America's capital had the highest per capita murder rate in the country.

Yet, crack use declined in both cities simultaneously.

The younger generation saw first-hand what crack was doing to their 
older brothers and sisters and decided for themselves crack was bad news.

This is not to say nothing can be done about methamphetamine.

Access to drug treatment is critical for the current generation of 
meth users. Diverting resources away from prisons and into 
cost-effective treatment would save tax dollars and lives.

Robert Sharpe, Policy Analyst,

Common Sense for Drug Policy

Arlington, Va.
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MAP posted-by: Elaine