Pubdate: Wed, 27 Apr 2005
Source: Etobicoke Guardian (CN ON)
Copyright: 2005 Etobicoke Guardian
Contact:  http://www.insidetoronto.ca/to/etobicoke/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2218
Author: Joanna Lavoie
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)

COUNCILLOR TALKS CRIME AT MEETINGS

Community Meetings

Toronto Police's drug squad busted a marijuana grow-op in Long Branch worth 
an estimated street value of more than $200,000 last week.

The discovery happened unexpectedly as two community response officers made 
a routine traffic stop of a vehicle police officers said was driving 
erratically along Dominion Road.

Upon further questioning of two males, police uncovered a large marijuana 
growing operation.

"Even before opening up the apartment door there was a strong marijuana 
smell," said Staff-Sgt. Jim Winter who reported there has already been four 
drug-related busts in the area since the beginning of the year.

"Some of it was already packaged and some of it was in the growing stage."

Aware of and seeking to combat this type of criminal activity in south 
Etobicoke, Ward 6 Councillor Mark Grimes (Etobicoke-Lakeshore), with the 
help of 22 Division police, has organized a series of four upcoming 
community safety sessions.

"With the closure of the 22 Division substation people were asking how they 
can get involved," said Grimes, noting he finds there are unique 
circumstances for each community. "I think it's very important we listen to 
the community."

The information seminars, which Grimes hopes will act as a stepping stone 
for the future formation of several local community associations, will look 
at a number of policing concerns in the area.

"It's a great way to better communicate with the community," added Grimes, 
who recently went on a ride-along with Sgt. Russ Clark to learn more about 
policing in his ward.

At the meeting, Winter also expects to share details and field questions 
about drinking along the lakeshore, drugs, prostitution, break and enters 
and automotive theft.

"From our perspective we're informing people about their communities," he 
said, mentioning speeding as an increasing problem throughout his division.

The first community safety session for Mimico residents happens tonight at 
the Mimico Library's auditorium (47 Station Rd.).

The second gathering for Alderwood residents is May 4 at Father John 
Redmond Secondary School's auditorium (300 Valermo Dr.).

The next meeting for Long Branch residents will be held May 9 at the 
Assembly Hall's performance hall (1 Colonel Samuel Smith Dr.) and the final 
session for New Toronto residents is May 26 (also at The Assembly Hall). 
All seminars start at 7 p.m.

For more details call, 416-397-9273.
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MAP posted-by: Beth