DOCUMENTARY AIRS DIFFERING DRUG VIEWS FROM LAW ENFORCERS

As a boy, John Gayder couldn't understand how a beloved family member
was somewhat ostracized after being arrested for carrying plant resin.

"This person, in my eyes, was a great person," he said.

"It was explained to me that he had tried to import the resin of a
plant. That, to me, didn't seem to be reason enough to turn him into a
monster," he recalled.

Years later, Gayder pursued a career in law enforcement. Today, he's a
constable with the Niagara Parks Police.

While he pledged to protect and serve, he has never forgotten his
past.

In 2002, he helped launch Law Enforcement Against Drug Prohibition,
made up of law enforcement personnel and civilians who believe
reforming drug laws is important to policing and the society police
serve.

LEAP favours a system of legalized regulation as a more ethical and
efficient measure for dealing with drug use, abuse and addiction.

"Based on my family experience and personal observations on the job,
there are some flaws in the war on drugs," Gayder said.

He will share his story Saturday when Global TV airs the documentary
"The Damage Done - A Drug War Odyssey."

The one-hour documentary focuses on law enforcement officers such as
Gayder whose years of experience in fighting the war on drugs has
turned them into crusaders for legalization.

Senator Larry Campbell is also featured in the documentary.

The former RCMP drug squad officer, coroner and mayor of Vancouver,
continues to fight for an end to drug prohibition.

"All these guys underwent striking transformations," said
writer/director Connie Littlefield.

Gayder hopes the national exposure will lead other like-minded
individuals to LEAP.

"This is one of the first major exposures for LEAP and I hope it
starts people asking questions about drug policy reform."

LEAP has several thousand members across the globe, including judges,
corrections officers, prosecutors and law enforcement officers as well
as civilian supporters.

Members include both retired and currently serving law enforcement
officers.

Gayder said their involvement in LEAP in no way reflects on their work
as law enforcement officers or the agencies they work for.

"The views expressed by me are my own and do not reflect any official
agency," he said.

The documentary will air nationwide Saturday at 7 p.m. on Global TV's
Global Currents, a new series of social documentaries.

It is expected to be broadcast in the U.S. within a few months.