LOCAL RCMP PUSHING FOR DRUG-FREE ZONE AT RSS

RCMP Const. Rebecca Scarlet asked Rossland council this week for
approval and support for a drug-free zone around Rossland Secondary
School.

"It gives students an opportunity to take back their school," she
said. "Kids can call anonymously to report possession of drugs and
trafficking."

A drug-free zone means zero tolerance, Scarlett said.

"A person will be charged if found in possession and any penalty will
be doubled if in the drug-free zone. If caught trafficking, the
penalty will be tripled."

Scarlet wants the Rossland council to pay for signs for a two-block
radius of the school.

We will then notify students and parents with pamphlets and
information."

Scarlet also pointed out that lockers may be subject to searches, "as
they are school property."

There has been a drug-free zone around J.L. Crowe in Trail since
January 2000.

"People have been caught in that zone," Scarlet said. "I believe it
works. It helps deter (drug use) - or makes them run faster."

She'd like to see the zone in place by September.

Council will make a decision on July 26.