what to do about crime

Do tougher laws help the crime situation? Does gun control help? What of the death penalty?
http://www.washingtontimes.com/commentary/20060826-101822-1650r.htm

What we need to do is stop this bullshit war on drugs that's causing prison overcrowding with non-violent drug offenders.  Prison should be for violent felons, the real threats to society.