The issue of drugs in smaller communities like Wetaskiwin and drug houses is a reality.

It is something that operates in all parts of the province and country and, according to RCMP, in any neighbourhood.

Those attending a Wetaskiwin RCMP detachment Crime Prevention Workshop early this month got a look at what are the drugs of choice, and how to spot if they are being produced and sold in you area.

Const. Andrea Nadeau from the Wetaskiwin RCMP Detachment led the discussion, and she told those in attendance that there are many marijuana grow-ops busted in the province each year, and the pot is grown in everything from apartment closets to farm fields.

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There will be a new officer in uniform roaming the halls of Wetaskiwin's schools.

Const. Lee Greico-Savoy has been promoted to corporal and has been transferred to the Chestemere RCMP detachment.

For the past several years, Greico-Savoy has been the Wetaskiwin RCMP detachment's school resource officer, but her departure comes doesn't mean the position will be left empty.

Const. Jonathon Lepine is taking over for Greico-Savoy, after more than two years in the area as a general duty officer.

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Anti-gang legislation that would see gang members who commit murder be automatically charged with first-degree murder would effect places like Hobbema, says Blaine Calkins.

The Wetaskiwin MP was responding to the proposed legislation, which was tabled by the Federal Conservative government Feb. 26.

"The soft on crime approach has not worked. We have seen a proliferation of gangs, not only in Hobbema because this hasn't always been in Hobbema. This is something that has taken time to creep in and it has crept into Calgary and the streets of Vancouver and Toronto."

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