LOOK FOR CRYSTAL METH PETITION IN RETAIL OUTLETS

Editor, The Record:

Two weeks ago I forwarded a letter regarding an epidemic that is spreading
across the province: crystal methamphetamines. Those that produce and
distribute this poison are targeting our kids.

Fraser House is working on a forum in Mission in September, and while
undoubtedly education is the key to defeating the further spread of this
plague, I believe stricter penalties for producing and distributing it are
necessary.

To that end, I am requesting the assistance of the public to bring some
political pressure to bear on our federal government to enact laws specific
to this dangerous poison. I am asking that the public sign the petition that
will soon be in retail stores in much of the Fraser Valley.

It demands an end to the revolving door that so frequently sees offenders
out on bail producing and selling crystal meth before the police have
finished the paper work on the first arrest.

We are demanding an end to the "velvet glove" approach that seems to be
given to the criminals that do appear in court charged with manufacturing or
distributing this mind-destroying poison.

The petition is not a guarantee of action by the federal government however,
I believe it can greatly assist in bringing pressure to achieve action.

Make no mistake: a huge percentage of the break-ins and garage thefts,
shoplifting, and aggressive violent behavior is related to this substance
and you or your kids could be the next victims. Think of the pictures of the
police wearing full chemical protective suits when shutting down crystal
meth labs and then consider that in some cases there are children in these
homes without the benefit of chemical suits. Do these criminals deserve
significant jail time? I think so.

I hope you agree and will assist in trying to ensure that happens. Look for
the petition in your local retail outlet.

Randy Hawes

Maple Ridge-Mission MLA