POLICE BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO THE DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE

In the midst of all the uproar about the recent police crackdown on
drug dealers in the Downtown Eastside, what I find amazing is that it
took so long for the offensive to happen (Dealers, addicts just move
around, July 5). I live on the west side and consider myself fortunate
to be able to live in a relatively safe environment. However, my
artist studio straddles the line between East Hastings and Gastown.
Until the increased police presence, it was not a comfortable place to
be. Despite being a fit, six-foot, 180-pound male, I still experienced
times where I did not feel safe for myself or for those who visited my
studio.

Residents of the west side, along with those who are becoming
increasingly alarmed in other neighbourhoods, would hardly accept the
presence of these people who prey upon the weak and less fortunate. I
cannot imagine walking through a maze of dealers and addicts down
Broadway or Fourth Avenue with my wife and daughter in tow, as so many
people have had to do on East Hastings Street until recently.

It is not sufficient to dump the problem of drugs and crime in any
neighbourhood, let alone one as disadvantaged as the Downtown Eastside.

The drug problem is complex. But until a resolution is found, the city
and its residents need to inject more money and police into the
problem. The dispersing of dealers throughout the city demonstrates
that the police presence is effective. They are the specialists and
recognize what is required to make the Downtown Eastside livable. I,
for one, am thankful they finally took it upon themselves to address
an increasingly ugly situation.

David Wilson

Vancouver