Make buyers pay for war on drugs

It is alarming to read cartels are coming into the suburbs to lure our vulnerable youth into addiction. We are failing in our war on drugs. Targeting the dealers has not worked, and more just keep popping up.

I think it is time to go after the source of the problem: the consumer. Without the resources from the consumer, we wouldn't have a drug problem. The punishment needs to be far more severe than a fine, maybe some jail time or court-ordered rehab.

If a person is caught with drug possession or tests positive for use, a percentage of their gross income is their fine based on the previous year's tax returns. Keep the punishment easy to enforce, easy to calculate, and a fair punishment whether you're rich, poor or in the middle. As long as you make an income you will pay even if your wages need to be garnished or a lien placed on your possessions to ensure payment.

No jail time (a waste of money and a loss of income), no forced rehab (it doesn't work without a desire to change behavior), no record that may hamper employment. No lawyer needed with positive test results. Pay the fine and you're free to go. Get caught again, same procedure. You will either go broke or choose to get help to stop the habit.

Do you honestly think a $2,000 fine imposed on Paris Hilton had any impact? She will make thousands more telling her side of the story. The war on drugs needs more funding. The more money, the greater the power to end it. Reverse the flow of money to the drug trade by taking away more money from those who supply it.

Arlene Lukas

Arlington Heights