The average drug criminal isn't waging a turf war over black-market territory or shooting it out with the police. Legalization would only increase the number of people robbing, stealing and prostituting themselves for drug cash. When the entertainment industry takes dramatic license with the facts about drug use, it has a real impact. Children see drugs as less risky. Parents grow less concerned and talk to their children less frequently about the dangers of drug use.
Public support diminishes for the men and women of law enforcement who safeguard our families.
Policy makers are less inclined to do what's necessary to fight drugs. Walking away in disgust from the realities of drug use can add drama to a movie or a TV script, but in the real world it is plain irresponsible.