The ‘war on drugs’ shows no sign of ending

Late last Spring CTV in Toronto did a series of features on aspects of the war on drugs. One article in particular summarizes the current situation and makes reference to the Conservative’s Bill C-15 which proposes increased mandatory minimums for a number of drug offenses. The article notes that Canada would be following the American approach, and that despite locking up people at a greater rate than any other country, the availability of dope of all kinds is greater than ever before in the U.S.

In contrast to the Conservative’s approach, Toronto lawyer Edward Sapiano argues for a change in drug policy:

Defence lawyer Edward Sapiano thinks the so-called “war on drugs” has primarily benefited big-time dealers.

The economics are simple: Restricting supply in the face of constant demand means more profits for those in the dirty business of drugs, he said.

Because of the profits involved, criminals are willing to engage in violence to control the drug trade.

“We would almost certainly see a significant drop in crime rates if we not only decriminalized, but legalized, regulated and taxed” currently illegal drugs, Sapiano said.

Accompanying the article are 8 videos. The videos actually comprise the bulk of the reporting and thus they should be viewed. Check out this feature story here