Pubdate: Thu, 10 Mar 2005
Source: Sun News (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Copyright: 2005 Sun Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/mld/sunnews/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/987
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Test)
Note: apparent 150 word limit on LTEs

DRUG TESTS CONSIDERED FOR CHARLESTON COUNCIL

CHARLESTON - Charleston City Council is considering the idea of
requiring drug tests for its members after Councilman Kwadjo Campbell
was charged with marijuana possession.

On Tuesday, the council asked the city staff to review whether the
same drug-testing rules that apply to city workers may legally be
applied to members of the council.

The staff also was asked to see whether testing is required for
members of other elected bodies in the state.

Councilman Paul Tinkler proposed the idea. He said council members
should be held to the same standard as city workers, who can be tested
upon suspicion of illegal drug use.

Campbell, 33, was charged with second-offense marijuana possession
last month. Campbell, who pleaded guilty to marijuana possession in
1996 and served probation, awaits trial on the misdemeanor charge.

Some members of the council questioned Tinkler's motives as Campbell
listened silently.

Under city law, council members forfeit their seats if convicted of a
crime involving moral turpitude.

Mayor Joseph Riley Jr. has urged the council to eject Campbell if he
is convicted, although S.C. courts have ruled simple possession of
marijuana is not a crime involving moral turpitude. Campbell did not
object to the drug-testing plan and voted for the idea.
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MAP posted-by: Derek