POLICE CRACK DOWN ON YOUNG CRIMINALS

Saanich Police observed 13 people committing various crimes during a
five-day investigation that was aimed at determining the volume and
frequency of illicit drug use among Saanich youth.

From May 5 to 9, plain clothes and uniformed police officers kept an eye
on parks, recreation centres, malls and fast food restaurants before and
after school as well as during school breaks.

Officers were specifically looking for youth who strayed from school
grounds while school was in session.

Insp. John Charlton was quick to point out that much of the criminal
activity that police saw took place well away from schools.

In addition to trafficking in marijuana, police observed a theft and a
minor in possession of alcohol.

In some of the instances, police have advised Crown Counsel to proceed with
charges and in others they are recommending they be dealt with under the
Saanich Community Justice Program.

The most notable incident involved an alleged 19-year-old drug dealer.

"He was not a student," said Charlton. "He does live near a secondary
school, and indeed, does traffic marijuana to students."

Charlton noted that the outcome of the police probe was "about what was
expected." He adds, "Unfortunately, a very small number of youths do engage
in drug use and criminal activity during the day and when away from their
schools on breaks."

Police conducted a similar investigation last year.

"Thinking back to the project last year, there were a couple of instances
of illicit drugs other than marijuana. But very few," recalled Charlton.
"In this one, there was none. That's somewhat comforting, depending on what
your tolerance is."