DON'T SACRIFICE CIVIL LIBERTY TO FIGHT CRIME

Well, it looks like the raging debate over what to do about Whalley is going
to continue for some time and we think this is great. The best solutions are
those that involve a lot of debate, input and consideration from all sides.

And something really has to be done about Whalley. Not the vast majority of
homeowners or renters who make up the area's population, but the problematic
criminal element.

You see, we are all for a plan that reduces crime in Whalley. We want to see
fewer and fewer drug dealers, desperate addicts, prostitutes and homeless
people.

But we don't want those same people to be pushed off to a new corner or
another city.

We don't want to hear any more stories about seniors being attacked in their
sleep or people feeling afraid to leave their homes or walk down the street
- - any street.

And we certainly don't want to hear any more tales like Allen Sheffer's.
He's the retired man who was yanked off his bicycle by an overzealous RCMP
constable, handcuffed and charged with a criminal offence because he is too
poor to afford a proper bicycle helmet. And while he is awaiting his court
date, he must continue to collect empty pop cans to scrounge up a few bucks
to live on, never mind buying a new helmet and bike to replace the one the
police decided to confiscate because the man didn't have a receipt in his
pocket.

The B.C Liberties Association has weighed into the current debate by
reminding people that an infringement on any Canadian's Charter rights is an
infringement on every Canadian's Charter rights.

Sadly, we may just be seeing the beginning stages of what could be life in
the occupied territory of Whalley. Yes, please help reduce crime, but don't
step over the line and trample our rights.