Libby speaking out against Mandatory Minimum Sentences
Under Canada's proposed new drug laws, an 18-year-old who shares a joint with a 17-year-old friend could end up in jail. Small-time addicts convicted of pushing drugs near schools, parks, malls or other prospective youth hangouts would be automatically incarcerated for two years. Growers caught selling even one plant to a friend would also be jailed. The Harper government's bill to impose Canada's first mandatory minimum prison sentences for drug crimes -- removing judges' sentencing discretion -- has come under intense scrutiny in public hearings, which began last week.
The original article, New drug laws would fill prisons, critics say was published on May 4, 2009 in Vancouver Sun. Author(s): Janice Tibbetts