STIFFER PENALTIES FOR TRAFFICKERS

We have one of the worst drug problems in Canada and our court system
cannot or will not find the courage to deliver appropriate sentences
for the pushers who sell this evil on our streets (Drug traffickers
sentenced to 5 and 8 years, Jan. 4).

What kind of deterrent message are we sending to other traffickers
with sentences of this length? We need a coordinated "get tough" focus
and Justice Ross Collver with his forgiving, short sentences
establishes a precedenting soft touch to these criminals.

Judge Collver reasons that he must follow similar sentences for
similar crimes. Are we therefore to expect that this 5 to 8 year
sentence is a "norm?" If the previous sentences were adequate, there
may be a lessening, not a growth in the drug trade. These people may
have been deterred from pushing their drugs.

When are our judges going to stand up and be accountable to the
public, who want stiffer sentences handed down? The penalties to the
people who sell this poison must be harsh enough to deter others, not
some slap on the wrist.

I am angry that the judge did not give the sentence that the Crown
requested. Stand up and show some leadership and help us get rid of
this type of destructive crime.

Eleven years ago, at age 28, my son died from a cocaine overdose. I
understand first-hand the pain of that loss, and the waste of a good
person.

It angers me that we as a society, including Judge Collver, do not
focus on making it tough for traffickers to do business in this city.
And "tough" means time in jail, not a diversion from their task of
selling dope. It is sad.

Gerry Marsden

Port Coquitlam