[BlackbirdSST]

The numbers were up just a few weeks ago. Yep, that's my point exactly. They (the gubermint) can produce stats in a heartbeat to suit their agenda. Some would lap it up as cold hard fact, even though the story changes from day to day. Never mind the bald faced lies we catch them in every time they open their mouth's. Nothing like well trained sheep! Blackbird.

[Roscoe]

They (the gubermint) can produce stats

And potheads can produce smoke.

[jenny65]

They (the gubermint) can produce stats in a heartbeat to suit their agenda.

I seem to recall reading that the (non-partisan) agency in charge of national crime statistics is now under the control of Ashcroft. Until this change occurred, they were free to publish statistics at will. Now, all releases must be cleared through the Justice department, specifically the AG.

One thing I keep wondering is why no one here ever wants to talk about why the Republicans are so gung-ho about the War on Drugs. It ought to be discussed. Personally, I don't know the answer, other than the generally accepted "tough on crime" stance the Republicans have.