LEGAL DRUGS INVITE CRIME, FORUM TOLD

LEGALIZING drugs will result in increased drug use and more crime, a
Calgary drug expert told a community safety meeting yesterday.

Former Calgary Police Service detective Steve Walton spoke to a
neighbourhood safety forum at R.B. Russell Vocational High School yesterday.

Walton was the keynote speaker at the forum, which was organized by the
Winnipeg Committee for Safety. The day-long event also included workshops
on youth sexual exploitation, bullying, seniors' safety and how to drug and
crime-proof kids.

In his speech to about 50 people, Walton said he's becoming increasingly
concerned about younger and younger kids getting involved in drugs.

He said young teenagers are especially at risk.

"Children between 12 and 17 are particularly vulnerable," he said. "They
buy into the misinformation that's out there about the consequences of drug
use." Walton, a 25-year veteran of the Calgary Police Service, said parents
and teachers need to educate themselves about drugs so they can provide
credible information to kids.

Walton also questioned whether a move to decriminalize drugs like marijuana
will help address, or exacerbate, the drug problem in Canada.

He noted the experience in the Netherlands, which legalized small amounts
of pot in 1988, has not supported the call for legalization.

According to the International Drug Strategy Institute, marijuana use went
up 30 per cent in Holland between 1988 and 1992. During that same time,
violent crime increased in Holland by 40 per cent and the number of
identified organized crime groups went from three to 93.

Walton also noted the rising number of clandestine drug labs and grow
operations popping up in residential neighbourhoods is putting everyone at
risk.

The labs often operate unsafe electrical systems that pose fire risks.
Weapons and booby traps are often inside, he said. Walton encouraged
communities to fight back against drug users, dealers and producers.

"Criminals will move when they see your community mobilize," he said.

A bill currently before the Parliament will amend drug laws to make
possession of a small amount of marijuana punishable by a fine instead of
jail time.