War on drugs needs new target

Re “Burdened U.S. military cuts role in drug war,” Jan. 22

If there is less patrolling on the border, more drugs will come into the U.S., and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration’s resources need to be redirected accordingly -- and not to West Hollywood’s prescription pot smokers. California voters passed a medical marijuana proposition in 1996, only to have Washington flex its muscles by raiding these dispensaries, showing us the wonderful job the feds are doing protecting us from pot smokers.

Shame on them. Their resources belong on the southern border, stopping the flow of drugs into the United States. Only fools are impressed with the DEA’s misguided efforts.

DOUG RAWSON

Santa Monica

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During the Prohibition era, the Federal Bureau of Investigation was created to fight organized crime, which was in the business of importing alcohol and drugs. Why is it that in the 21st century the FBI, in conjunction with our military, can’t work more effectively to fight drug smuggling?

Our military is not only being stretched thin by wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is expected to support drug suppression efforts globally. If drug smuggling is a primary source of terrorist funding, there should be a cooperative venture between our FBI and our military to fight it. Not only would our young soldiers be fighting a worthy cause, but fewer would die needlessly.

JETHRO SINGER

Santa Monica

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It’s nice to see that our government has its priorities in order. Apparently there are insufficient funds to properly equip our soldiers fighting in Iraq, and insufficient resources to catch importers of what the government has determined to be dangerous illegal narcotics.

There are, however, plenty of resources available for the DEA to harass medical marijuana outlets on the possibility that they may be supplying marijuana to those who may not really need it. What a cruel joke.

ALVIN S. MICHAELSON

Los Angeles