YORK COPS LAUD CHOPPER RULING

York Regional Police are applauding Friday's Supreme Court of Canada
decision allowing cops to once again use infrared technology to identify
possible marijuana grow operations without a search warrant.

But others still say it's a violation of civil rights.

"Our officers need every tool and technology available to fight these
criminal elements, which have invaded our residential and commercial
neighbourhoods and I am relieved the Supreme Court agreed," York Regional
Police Chief Armand La Barge said.

However, in using the technology, police may be trampling the Charter of
Rights and Freedoms, one York Region legal expert said.

"I see it as an invasion of privacy," Aurora criminal lawyer Barry Switzer
Said.

While Mr. Switzer understands the logic behind the Supreme Court's decision,
he said he can't help wondering what's next.

"If they're allowing thermal imaging cameras, what will happen when
technology advances? Will they allow X-ray technology to be used? As
technology becomes more innovative, it's also becoming more invasive. I just
wonder where it's all going."

Infrared cameras can detect high sources of heat but they cannot determine
the exact nature of the source nor can they see inside a building.