Texas is in the process of implementing the state’s first needle exchange program in Bexar County. Texas is the last state to adopt such a program.
TDCAA had a recent discussion on the issue. The issue was, could those with needles be charged with possession or delivery of drug paraphenalia?
Those bleeding heart liberals, the Islamic Republic of Iran, started a needle program two years ago to fight AIDS. Let’s compare the sentiments of Williamson County District Attorney John Bradley with his counterparts in Iran.
Iran Says– “This was a very crucial step,” said Ali Hashemi, director of Iran’s Drug Control Headquarters, a cabinet-level office. “Inevitably we have to do this in order to reduce the risk of AIDS.”
John Bradley says– “Can we prosecute for possession of the trace amount of illegal drugs in the needles? Or, is the defendant also getting immunity for that felony, too?”
Iran Says– Arch-conservative Ayatollah Mohammed Esmail Shoshtari recently ordered prosecutors to defer to the nation’s Health Ministry in the fight against AIDS. “It’s ironic that Iran, very fundamentalist, very religious — very religious — has been able to convince itself” to embrace such policies, said Bijan Nasirimanesh, who operates a drug clinic near Tehran.
John Bradley says– (on why those with needles should not be immune from prosecution) “That would mean that any program, even those that are clearly illegal, are justified because an individual draws the conclusion that he/she is doing some greater social good. Seems to me that some anti-abortionists have attempted to use that defense when trespassing on clinics or even when shooting doctors. What is the distinction?”
Labels: Prosecution, Texas, War On Drugs