Stiffer Penalties for Drug Related Offences

Year
2006
Number
B3
Sponsor(s)
Langford

WHEREAS the increasing use of dangerous drugs such as Crystal Meth is causing much harm to our community, and the consequential penalties are proving insufficient to stem the increase; AND WHEREAS the stiffer penalties awarded in Alberta appear to be having the required effect: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the judiciary in British Columbia be asked to impose stiffer penalties on those convicted of serious drug related offences, with particular attention to those involved in the trafficking of drugs and the violent collateral offences related to drug use.

Provincial Response

Ministry of Attorney General The federal government has announced plans to change penalties for drug offences, including mandatory minimum penalties, to ensure that sentences for serious drug offences are appropriate to the offence. Recently, the Province of British Columbia Province joined other provinces and territories in urging the federal government to increase the maximum penalties for methamphetamines offences, which the federal government has done. For example, the maximum penalty for methamphetamines production, trafficking or possession for importexport is now life in prison. The Province continues to work with its partners across the country to develop strategies that will help increase the strength of the cases and the awareness of the court regarding the seriousness of drug issues.

Convention Decision
Endorsed