Pubdate: Fri, 16 May 2003
Source: Saanich News (CN BC)
Contact:  http://www.saanichnews.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1209
Author: Vern Faulkner
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

POLICE CRACK DOWN ON YOUNG CRIMINALS

Saanich Police observed 13 people committing various crimes during a 
five-day investigation that was aimed at determining the volume and 
frequency of illicit drug use among Saanich youth.

 From May 5 to 9, plain clothes and uniformed police officers kept an eye 
on parks, recreation centres, malls and fast food restaurants before and 
after school as well as during school breaks.

Officers were specifically looking for youth who strayed from school 
grounds while school was in session.

Insp. John Charlton was quick to point out that much of the criminal 
activity that police saw took place well away from schools.

In addition to trafficking in marijuana, police observed a theft and a 
minor in possession of alcohol.

In some of the instances, police have advised Crown Counsel to proceed with 
charges and in others they are recommending they be dealt with under the 
Saanich Community Justice Program.

The most notable incident involved an alleged 19-year-old drug dealer.

"He was not a student," said Charlton. "He does live near a secondary 
school, and indeed, does traffic marijuana to students."

Charlton noted that the outcome of the police probe was "about what was 
expected." He adds, "Unfortunately, a very small number of youths do engage 
in drug use and criminal activity during the day and when away from their 
schools on breaks."

Police conducted a similar investigation last year.

"Thinking back to the project last year, there were a couple of instances 
of illicit drugs other than marijuana. But very few," recalled Charlton. 
"In this one, there was none. That's somewhat comforting, depending on what 
your tolerance is."
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MAP posted-by: Jackl