Pubdate: Fri, 02 Jan 2009
Source: Windsor Star (CN ON)
Copyright: 2009 The Windsor Star
Contact: http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/letters.html
Website: http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/501
Author: Fred P. Brannagan
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08/n1164/a05.html

ADDICTS BREAK THE LAW EACH TIME THEY TAKE DRUGS

Re: Addicted Cop Fights Dismissal, Dec. 26.

K. Jull, lawyer for the constable in the case, calls for an 
"important judicial interpretation" regarding the duty of a police 
force to accommodate officers who suffer from the "disability of drug 
addiction."

I would counter the main issue (for the protection of the public) as 
to what bounds police can constrain the actions of those seeking 
employment as police personnel.

Mr. Jull feels people would have a different opinion of his client if 
he was addicted to alcohol. I agree.

It is possible to have an alcohol dependency as a police officer (or 
any other job) and not break the law.

However, a habitual narcotic addict, police officer or not, breaks 
the law each time he or she uses a narcotic that is prohibited by 
federal legislation.

The "important judicial interpretation" in this case is to ensure 
nothing, including an addiction, gives the legal right to police 
personnel to participate in criminal or illegal acts.

Not only could such a precedent compromise the integrity of the 
police, but it could also place at risk the safety and security of 
the community.

Fred P. Brannagan

Windsor
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