Pubdate: Thu, 25 Mar 2004
Source: Markham Economist & Sun (CN ON)
Copyright: 2004, Metroland Printing
Contact:  http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/newscentre/markhameconomistandsun/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2360
Feedback: http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/customerservice/lettertoeditor/
Forum: http://info.metroland.com/php/phpbb2_yr/
Author: Stephen Hebscher
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v04/n471/a09.html

CHIEF SHOULD USE RESOURCES TO BATTLE REAL CRIME

Re: Jail pot growers, chief says, March 21.

York Regional Police Chief Armand La Barge is calling for minimum two-year
jail sentences for those convicted of running marijuana grow operations.

Perhaps the chief should consider supporting the decriminalization of
marijuana -- Parliament is considering this -- and freeing up police
resources to fight real crime.

Given jail sentences are usually reserved only for dangerous, violent
criminals and chronic repeat offenders, isn't the chief's suggestion a step
backward?

STEPHEN HEBSCHER
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