CHIARELLI WANTS MORE POLICE TO FIGHT DRUGS IN SCHOOLS

Mayor Bob Chiarelli wants to go after "drug pushers" by increasing
the number of police officers working in schools to 33 from 22.

Called school resource officers, they work full time in the city's
350 elementary and high schools. Mr. Chiarelli said drug use,
especially marijuana, is a problem at some schools.

"This is going to put pressure on pushers, and the kids in schools
who sell the drugs," he said. He said the officers wouldn't cost more
- -- they could be taken from the 90 officers being added next year.

Const. Isabelle Lemieux, media relations officer for the police, said
the force doesn't comment on municipal campaign promises, but noted
police Chief Vince Bevan would be open to talking about resources
with the new council.