Proponents of drug legalization argue that it infringes on the right of individuals to consume what they wish; that current drug laws are unenforceable and have created a criminal class; that they disproportionately impact certain racial groups; and that some drugs, notably marijuana, have medicinal effects. Opponents of legalization, which consist of a clear majority of American citizens, believe that it would significantly increase drug use, lead to more experimentation by youth, and exacerbate the adverse effects of drugs on society. Opponents also believe that drug-related crime would increase due to black market drug activity and the need for drug addicts to commit crimes to pay for drugs. Public health would suffer under an increase in the number of people suffering from the toxic effects of drugs on their bodies, and the increased demand on medical staff and facilities would further increase medical costs for the public. It has also become clear that terrorists have profited from drug trafficking to support their activities. The increase in drug users under legalization, which is predicted by its opponents, would thus indirectly contribute to increased funding for terrorist activity. Given the anticipated negative consequences of drug legalization in America and the public's opposition to it, police executives should speak out against drug legalization. 26 notes and 24 references