As for "non-violent drug offenders?" Non-violent perhaps. But that does not mean their behavior is cost free. Burglary, larceny, car theft, theft of CD receivers, wheels,etc. All ads up. In the hundreds of millions of dollars. Much of it to support their drug habits. Cocaine/Meth,Crack, etc. very expensive. I too would be homeless if I had to spend thousands a month to support my drug habit. Consequently, many turn to drug dealing, theft, prostitution,etc. Drugs are hardly "victimless."
I'll agree that many NON-violent offenders do not merit incarceration, tax offenders come to mind. Pot farmers with 6 plants? Hardly merit concern. Efforts should be focused on VIOLENT offenders. 70% of cops are killed by people who cannot legally possess firearms in the first place, i.e. felons. They are everywhere!
Burglary, larceny, car theft, etc., are crimes in which there is a perpetrator and victim. They should be prosecuted. If they are a threat to others, and have an inclination toward violence and mischief, then wether or not they were intoxicated is irrelevant. Not everyone who intoxicates himself is a threat to others.
Drugs are hardly "victimless."
If there is no unwilling party which has sustained damages then there is no victim. Thus, no crime.
I too would be homeless if I had to spend thousands a month to support my drug habit.
The consequences would be yours alone to bear.