Pubdate: Wed, 13 Feb 2013
Source: Metro (Halifax, CN NS)
Copyright: 2013 Metro Canada
Contact:  http://www.metronews.ca/Halifax
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4727
Author: Ruth Davenport

'GROUNDBREAKING' CONVERSATION

First time: Police brass gets presentation from group dedicated to
legalizing, regulating, taxing drugs

The new chief of Halifax Regional Police is getting praise for the
"groundbreaking" decision to hear a presentation from a group
dedicated to reforming current drug laws.

The president of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP) Canada
made an hour-long presentation to Chief Jean-Michel Blais and senior
police management Tuesday on drug prohibition.

LEAP is made up of current and former law enforcement officers devoted
to ending the failed war on drugs by legalizing, regulating and taxing
illegal substances.

Canadian president David Bratzer said it's the first time a Canadian
police chief has asked a LEAP representative to address serving officers.

"It shows a police chief who's open-minded and willing to engage in
dialogue about complex issues," said Bratzer. "It is groundbreaking.
In my view, what he did is national police leadership. I can't say
enough about it, I'm so impressed."

Blais said he invited Bratzer to speak in the interests of being open
to a range of new ideas on policing.

"As we continue looking at the sustainability of policing practices
here in HRM=C2=85overall, what are we doing? Does this make sense?" he
said. "We may not agree with his points=C2=85but it doesn't mean we can't

listen and learn from there."

Bratzer, a police officer in British Columbia, said the presentation
seemed well-received.

"These senior officers are very experienced and they asked some good
questions," said Bratzer, adding that his views do not represent those
of his employer. "It's exactly what we need, to be having a national
discussion about this issue."

Blais said Bratzer made some compelling points, and said he'd
recommend a LEAP presentation to other police chiefs in Nova Scotia.

"I'd be willing to do (that) in an effort to allow them to understand
some of the challenges that are there, and some of the intellectual
opportunities for a rational discussion," he said.
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MAP posted-by: Matt