Pubdate: Thu, 09 Mar 2000 Source: Edson Leader (CN AB) Copyright: 2000 Edson Leader Contact: Box 6330 4820-3 Ave., Edson, Alberta T7E 1T8 Fax: (780) 723-5171 Website: http://www.bowesnet.com/edson/ Author: David Grabowski, Edson CHECK STOPS INFRINGE ON RIGHTS To the Editor: The RCMP are to be thanked for their thorough police work, which resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of drugs, as reported in the Edson Leader Feb. 22. Drugs are a serious problem that society has yet to solve. The recent Check Stop at the Jasper Park Gates, Feb. 7-12, fits a pattern that should concern us as much as drug addiction. Frequently our freedom is being restricted in the name of the general good. Photo radar, gun registration, seat belt laws and Check Stops are examples of infringements on liberty that many Canadians seem to accept and perhaps accept too easily. Citizens living in a democracy should question the motives and actions o those with power, for power is a two-edged sword. The Check Stop at the Park gates was arranged to arrest impaired drivers according to Cpl. Brian Topham. Check Stops for that purpose are permissible. Should Check Stops be allowed for other reasons? Not one impaired driving charge was laid during the week the Check Stop was in place. Why then will the police return to the Jasper Park gates in future months unless it is to continue to find drugs? Is the stated purpose of the Jasper Park gates Check Stop a deception? Will the time come when the police no longer need a reason to detain and interrogate citizens? Allowing the police to stop and search the vehicles of "law-abiding" citizens because there may be contraband is a serious breach of our freedom and the practice must be stopped. I recognize the difficult job the police have and admire their accomplishments under adverse circumstances, but the RCMP and society need to find a less intrusive solution to crime. David Grabowski Edson - --- MAP posted-by: Allan Wilkinson