HARSHER PENALTIES IN DRUG-FREE ZONE

A three-block area around Nakusp Elementary and Secondary Schools will be
declared a drug-free zone. The project is in the preliminary stages.

The zone, an agreement between the school, the RCMP and the courts, means
that the three-block area, plus any areas known for drug use (e.g. a
lunch-time smoke pit) will be labelled "drug-free". If anyone is caught
using or dealing within the zone, punishment will double for use or
possession, and triple for dealing. Anyone found with drugs at the school
will be punished.

(The heavier penalties will not necessarily apply to people caught with
illegal drugs in their homes within the zone, unless kids are involved.)

The elementary school could have a DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)
officer by November; Cst. Mike Wicentowich says he wants to do the job and
asks local businesses to contact him if they want to help raise money for
the program.