For my law class, we have to research drug laws of different countries and write an essay. I came across an interesting bit of info. on penalties in the US:

In the U.S., the War on Drugs is causing a prison overcrowding problem. In 1996, 59.6% of prisoners were drug-related criminals. U.S. population grew by about +25% from 1980 to 2000. In that same 20 year time period, U.S. prison population tripled. To make room in prison for incoming drug users and dealers, all inmates, including violent criminals are having their sentences shortened or are being paroled early. This is why mandatory sentencing laws are being repealed.
Source

So because they need room for druggies and drug lords, inmates with more serious offences such as rapists, murderers, etc. get less time.

That upsets me.