I recently read an article that New York is considering a law that would allow judges the option to place people who are arrested, on non-violent minor drug offenses, to drug rehab facilities in lieu of prison sentences. This new law would also make punishments for adult drug dealers who sell drugs to children and drug kingpins more harsh.
This is a great step in the right direction. There should be a difference in how the law views someone who is addicted to drugs and those who are making a career on distributing these drugs. Many people who are arrested on drug charges are addicts who struggle daily with their addictions, would like help but don't know where to turn, and would gladly accept the help they would be provided in overcoming addiction vs. going to prison.
It is proven that prisoners who get treatment for their addictions are less likely to get out and repeat the same offenses. It is also much more cost effective to provide drug treatment than it is to house a prisoner for any length of time. People who receive treatment for their drug addiction also have a better chance of reintegration into society and actually becoming a contributing member of the work force.
