Pubdate: Wed, 17 Mar 2010 Source: Times & Transcript (Moncton, CN NK) Copyright: 2010 New Brunswick Publishing Company Contact: http://timestranscript.canadaeast.com/onsite.php?page=contact#B Website: http://timestranscript.canadaeast.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2660 Author: Michel Lavigne POLICE STATE ON HORIZON To The Editor: I have never arrived at a point in my 44 years when I felt so much utter disgust and amazement at how our basic human rights have slowly been taken away from us by the government and the police. And we as a people just put up our hands, shrug our shoulders and say "what can we do?" Last year's legislation permitting police to stop you "for no reason" whatsoever was just the beginning, although they have been doing this for years, as we can all tell a story or two about that. Now with the introduction by Attorney General Kelly Lamrock of the "Civil Forfeiture Act" police will be able to come into your home and seize your property without anyone being charged if they "suspect" you have received these from the profits of crime. A similar law has been on the books for years, however the government had to prove their case in criminal court. But I guess it was too difficult, so they have decided to change the rules of the game (must be nice to have that kind of power). Mr. Lamrock describes the bill as a way to fight against child porn and drug dealers etc. I find it very convenient that he chooses two of the most sensitive topics to most of us, which tugs at our heartstrings. Most people immediately think "oh well, I don't produce child porn and I don't sell or do drugs, I have nothing to worry about." Wrong. Unfortunately this legislation can cover anything. That's right, even if the police "suspect" (and when used correctly that can be used in any situation and abused dramatically) you have obtained property through illegal acts (no charges need to be laid) they can take it from you! Then you will have to go to "civil" court. Not criminal court, as the legislation calls for civil proceedings. "Guilty beyond a reasonable doubt" would not apply. Just believing it would be sufficient for a conviction. Never mind the thousands of dollars you would need to defend yourself. If found innocent, do you actually think the government would reimburse you for your legal costs? By this time, however, your whole life and future could be destroyed, along with many of the collateral damages that can follow (divorce, loss of job etc.). This proposed legislation is disgusting and plain wrong! It just opens the door to widespread abuse by government and the police. Can anyone say "police state"? Stand up people and take note. Slowly it's slipping away. Michel Lavigne, Bathurst - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D