CIVIL FORFEITURE ACT A GREAT PIECE OF LEGISLATION

Editor, The Record:

Open letter to Solicitor General John Les:

Why is it that some of the best stories seldom hit the headlines on
TV or in the newspapers? Take the Civil Forfeiture Act that targets
money behind crimes, legislated by the B.C. governmenta short timeago.

I am totally elated at the bright insight of Solicitor General John
Les and his willingness to actually do something about it.

It is absolutely great news forlaw-abiding citizen, but ever such bad
news for thesly, ruthless criminal, who has beenliving a life
ofsumptuous comfort from their crime profits.

Take the man in Maple Ridge who was arrested in a Hummer a while ago
that had two safes stuffed with drugs while he had thousands of
dollars in cash on hand. He was released on $2,000 bail and is likely
well on his way to beating the lenient legal system with ease.

Up until now that was the rule of thumb for these folks. But such
luxurious benefits have come to an abruptstand still.

This new forfeiture law would give a government director leeway to
impound the vehicle and the cash instantly, regardless of how he
fares in the courts.

What's more, in establishing "unlawful activity" the authorities only
have to proceed in civil court on the "balance of probabilities"
rather then proving beyond a reasonable doubt.

It truly is some of the best news that I've come across in a very
long time. My sincere thanks to Solicitor General John Les.Please
take note that your hard work, care, concern and actual deed is
received with gratitude by the general public.

Thanks again for facing head onthe rapidly growing criminal
activities that are so agonizing and costly to society as a whole.

Gertie Pool

Abbotsford