Pubdate: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 Source: Edmonton Sun (CN AB) Copyright: 2009 Canoe Limited Partnership. Contact: http://www.edmontonsun.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/135 Author: Jeremy Loome Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?199 (Mandatory Minimum Sentencing) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) MANDATORY MINIMUMS PLAN FOOLISH The federal government is foolish in pursuing mandatory minimum sentences for drug dealers. It simplistically parrots the antiquated assumption that any anti-drug policy will instantly garner wide public support; it shows federal politicians to be dreadfully out of touch with the Canadian public. Though the results of opinion surveys vary, few, if any, show majority support for the failed "war on drugs", which costs taxpayers billions -- yes, billions -- of dollars annually without lowering availability or use. In fact, as dozens of studies have concluded, attempting to "ban" drug consumption props up a black market for Canada's criminal organizations, which make most of their profits off outrageous market markups, then fight bloody turf wars over the enormous proceeds. Secondly, the proposed federal law comes as U.S. states are repealing mandatory minimum sentencing because it doesn't work. Criminals don't fear jail time, so it's not much of a deterrent. And while Canada's proposals aren't worded as broadly as U.S. initiatives, they'll still accomplish nothing, but cost a lot. Third, there are many areas of existing law that could be toughened up first. Sentencing guidelines for manslaughter in Canada are so low, first-time offenders can be out in two years. Victims' rights to involvement during prosecution lag behind where they should be, as do compensatory and counselling services. Canada could also toughen provisions allowing the indefinite confinement of repeat child sex offenders, to weed pedophiles out of society and held until a cure is found. Fourth, Canada's jails are beginning to mirror the overcrowded, ridiculous U.S. system, which jails more citizens per capita than China and North Korea. Mandatory minimums are irrational, cheap public gestures that will not help make Canadian streets safer. Legalizing, controlling and distributing drugs in the same manner as alcohol would, overnight, create enormous economic stimulus and badly hurt gangs. It's an easy choice, in the real world. In politics? Not so much. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom