Pubdate: Fri, 17 Feb 2017
Source: Edmonton Sun (CN AB)
Copyright: 2017 Canoe Limited Partnership.
Contact: http://www.edmontonsun.com/letter-to-editor
Website: http://www.edmontonsun.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/135
Author: Catherine Griwkowsky
Page: 2

ATHABASCA RCMP ARE REMINDING MOTORISTS THAT MARIJUANA IS STILL ILLEGAL

After a spike in roadside drug seizures, Athabasca RCMP are reminding
people marijuana is still illegal.

The past month has seen a spike in drug seizures through traffic
stops, with approximately 10 grams of cocaine and methamphetamine and
300 grams of marijuana and marijuana products - such as hash and hash
oil - in 15 separate incidents, said Cpl. Curtis Harsulla, spokesman
for the Athabasca RCMP.

"Some folks think it may be legal soon, but it's not quite there,"
Harsulla said.

Typically, the traffic enforcement unit may seize 15 to 30 grams of
various drugs every five days, he said.

"It could be increased enforcement, it could be we're looking a little
harder," Harsulla said. "We just noticed it and we're going to be
doing our best to combat it."

It is illegal to possess drugs, as well as operating a motor vehicle
while impaired.

In the past month, no drug-impaired driving charges were laid, but
there were several 24-hour licence suspensions as a result of recent
drug use.

Harsulla said Alberta RCMP have 30 drug recognition experts, including
one out of the Athabasca attachment.

While there are some locals who have been arrested, most are from out
of town, Harsulla said, noting there has not been the same spike in
drug use.
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