The war on drugs is less than effective; in fact it is so ineffective that it is being considered by most psychologist, policy makers, researchers, and law officials alike to be totally useless in preventing crime and drug use. As long as there is a demand there will be a supply. When the supply is reduced prices of the illegal drugs rise therefore addicts commit more crimes in order to get their fix. The cost of the war on drugs is too high, including salaries for police, jail time, court cost.

Addicts themselves are weak people that are caught up in a sickness that leaves them totally unable to cope with their lives. Jail does not rehabilitate and actually causes the addict to become more hopeless bitter and ashamed after they get out so they use again. These people are in need of help, not harm.

Recently there are many ‘drug’ courts forming that have programs for addicts so that they go to rehab rather than jail. They are more human and beneficial for the society and the addict
Of course most addicts have to reach ‘rock’ bottom before they finally decide to change their lives. However, I still believe that non-violent offenders do not need to be put in prision for their crimes for extended sentences. It is cruel on our part to punish the weak.