Pubdate: Sun, 25 Sep 2011 Source: Meridian Booster (CN AB) Copyright: 2011 Osprey Media Contact: http://www.meridianbooster.com/feedback1/LetterToEditor.aspx Website: http://www.meridianbooster.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1590 Author: Murray Crawford RCMP LAUNCH AGGRESSIVE GROW OP STRATEGY The RCMP's war on drugs has received a new strategy, which targets large-scale marijuana grow operations. On Sept. 21 the RCMP, along with the federal government and business and community partners, launched the national strategy, called the Marijuana Grow Initiative (MGI). "Marijuana grow operations pose a serious threat to Canadians, the safety of our communities and the law enforcement officers fighting against these illegal operations," said Shelly Glover, St. Boniface MP on behalf of public safety minister Vic Toews, in a release. "The Government of Canada is taking action to combat illicit marijuana cultivation in Canada, as well as the organized crime elements behind it." The MGI, co-working with the national anti-drug strategy, was developed with help from experts in the subject matter from across the country. It represents the RCMP's renewed commitment to fight marijuana production controlled by organized crime groups. Through three components -- awareness, deterrence and enforcement -- the MGI outlines the way in which the RCMP will work with partners and community members. The initiative helps inform the Canadian public about the consequences, inherent hazards and destructive impacts these activities have. Included in the initiative is the launch of a new page on the police service's website that will have a database of residences where a clandestine marijuana lab or major grow operation dismantled by the RCMP under the authority of a search warrant. Police said the site will be consistently updated with new properties and provide guidance and resources for landlords and buyers alike concerning the damages these operations have on a property and its occupants. "Grow operations harm communities," said Mike Cabana, Assistant RCMP Commissioner. "Wherever they exist there's the potential for an increase in criminal activity and a greater chance of fire, explosions and violence. This initiative is part of the RCMP's renewed commitment and priority to combat marijuana production controlled by organized crime groups." This new initiative has also brought the Insurance Bureau of Canada and Canadian Real Estate Association on board, who also issued statements in support of this initiative. The new information pages can be found by going to the RCMP website at www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca . If you have information about a marijuana grow operation in your neighbourhood you can anonymously supply information by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). - --- MAP posted-by: Richard R Smith Jr.