MARIJUANA `HOLIDAY' BLAMED FOR LITTLETON TRAGEDY

MARIJUANA `HOLIDAY' BLAMED FOR LITTLETON TRAGEDY

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Wireless Flash) -- The media has blamed everything from gothic music to Nazis as the reason for the Littleton high school massacre. Now marijuana is getting the blame. A group called the Family Research Council claims marijuana may have inspired the massacre because the murders took place on April 20, which is considered a special holiday for potheads. Spokesman Chad Nykamp says a 1998 poll suggests that 76 percent of teenagers who smoke pot carry guns to school while 70 percent admit to taking part in gang activities. However, the survey and massacre theory are being pooh- poohed by the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. A spokesperson claims numerous studies prove marijuana doesn't increase aggressiveness and some studies suggest it may actually reduce it.

CONTACT: Chad Nykamp, ****; Washington, D.C.; Paul Armentano, (NORML) ****; (202) 483-8751