Pubdate: Sat, 05 Mar 2005 Source: Edmonton Journal (CN AB) Copyright: 2005 The Edmonton Journal Contact: http://www.canada.com/edmonton/edmontonjournal/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/134 Author: Mike Lazaruk Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada) LET'S NOT RUSH TO JUSTICE In the wake of the tragic slaying offour RCMP officers near Mayerthorpe, it seems all too easy and obvious to call for Parliament to toughen the criminal sanctions for marijuana grow operators, such as the one responsible for this horrific act. However, harsher penalties will not make the problem go away. In fact, lengthier sentences may encourage other drug producers to heavily arm themselves. A knee-jerk reaction is never as effective as a well-thought-out solution. My grandfather was an RCMP detective, and he would have wished for the safety of his fellow officers before any extended sentences for drug suppliers. Our peace officers across the country need and deserve the maximum protection possible, regardless of concerns for budgetary constraints. Before we call on Ottawa to pass a reactionary amendment to the Criminal Code, let's take stock of what really happened. Take the focus away from the drugs and the car chop shop, and recognize that these were the actions of a deranged man, who by his father's own admission had a sick fixation with guns, and a hatred for the police. Do not forsake the memories of these young officers by demanding a quick-fix law that will have little, if any, impact on the drug landscape in this country. Let us honour these fallen heroes by ensuring that the law enforcement community in Canada has the protection and the resources it needs to operate safely and effectively, because above all else we must ensure we don't suffer another loss like the one near Mayerthorpe. Mike Lazaruk Edmonton - --- MAP posted-by: Beth