"New Taser Policy"

The Globe and Mail recently discussed a revision to the RCMP's contraversial taser policy. That is, the new policy "allows officers to fire multiple shocks to control people under certain circumstances." The RCMP state that individuals who display 'excited delirium' can be subject to taser treatment. This described as a potentially fatal “state of extreme mental and physiological excitement that is characterized by extreme agitation, hyperthermia, hostility, exceptional strength and endurance without apparent fatigue.” To recognize people of this nature, RCMP officers are now required to take two day twenty hour course.

My Critique
My past postings on the topic of taser-use should give some indication on the direction of my argument. I thought it would be fair to keep readers updated on the issue. Furthermore, the facts prove that numerous people have died as a result of tasers. How far will this policy go? In other words, considering the most recent death of Robert Dziekanski at a Vancouver airport, how many more people must die to support a serious re-evalaution of this policy?

Advocacy of the Devil
Unfortunately, in the media, we only hear about the worst of the worst taser situations. Is it possible that critics of this policy simply overlook the unstable and dangerous situations that police sometimes experience? It is important to understand the notion that tasers are meant for control not punishment. In effect, police need to be empowered to make the best, and somtimes necessary decisions.

"Chomsky Discusses Abuse of Political Power"

In this clip American linguist, professor, and political activist, Noam Chomsky, discusses some detail of his new book - Failed States: the Abuse of Power and Assault on Democracy.

It is very interested how Chomsky defines the United States as a 'failed state' or 'rogue state.' He describes how the Bush Administration, the highest level of U.S. authority, exemplifies the greatest abuse of power both nationally and internationally. For example, the Bush Administration was very aware that the Iraq invasion would increase the probability (by more than 50%) of a future nuclear attack in the United States within the next decade. In other words in relation to the United States, Chomsky argues that "surely its a terrorist state under its own defition of national terrorism." In the clip, Chomsky goes on to discuss instances of 'agressive militarism' displayed by the Bush Administration. The way Chomsky puts everything in perspective is quite chilling; it opens your eyes to what many often overlook.

"Brad Wall Excited About the Future of SK"

Although it is slightly off topic of this blog, I thought it would be interesting to share my most recent political experience. After the recent election, Saskatchewan's new premier, Brad Wall, has expressed a high level of confidence about the future of our province. Today, his view became a little more clear for me. In other words, Mr. Wall came into my place of work and proceeded to shake my hand and discuss a little politics. Most notably, he expressed his great appreciation for the fact that I intend to stay in Saskatchewan as a soon-to-be university graduate. Not only did his attention feel genuine, it made me feel like, as a young professional, I'm going to be part of something important-the future of Saskatchewan.

"Supreme Court has the Power..."

On November 1st, 2007, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that police now have the right to interrogate suspects beyond their constitutional right to silence. The decision was not unanimous as four of nine judges were not in favour of the favour of the ruling. According to a National Post article, this rulimg only contributes to more wrongful convictions. In other words, several critics suggest that if criminal suspects lose their pre-trial right to silence, there is a higher probability that more innocents may be convicted.

My Critique
First of all, how much confidence can Canadians have in the constitution if the supreme court can simply overturn individual rights when they feel its necessary? On a political and judicial level, the supreme court has an insurmountable amount of power. As a result, decisions like this need more investigation and review to determine the possible implications. It is chilling to think the supreme court can simply disregard constitutional rights-this notion weakens our constitution.

Advocacy of the Devil
Politics are dynamic and, as a result, our systems need the ability to adapt and evolve. In effect, the supreme court is empowered to make decisions which may not always coicide with older legislation. Maybe these critics should realize how this ruling will only help police in thier efforts to put criminals where they belong.

"B.C. Government Engages in Secrecy"

In a recent west coast article, "An unhealthy culture of secrecy and spin-doctoring," reporter Stephen Hume argues that the British Columbia government has been anti-democratic in their failure to disclose information which should be available to the public. For instance, the B.C. provincial government allegedly removed information from public documents that exposes unethical procurement by the Ministry of Children and Family Development. More specifically, passages were removed that stated how sexually abused children felt "neglected, isolated and short-changed by government." In addition, documents were censored that proved that the ministry recently spent $560,000 "on a luxurious redesign of its executive offices." Hume goes on to discuss several other instances of unethical censorship and secrecy in Canadian politics.

If democracy means that power ultimately lies in the people who elect our leaders, then it is difficult to label Canada as a 'true democracy.' Do our governments not owe us the right to disclose information that directly pertains to not only our tax dollars, but our youth in this case? As a young politically active voter, it makes me second guess the governments we elect.

"Cops Avoid Criminal Records"

How can you avoid a criminal record after driving drunk and assaulting innocent people? Easy, become a cop. In a recent news article, Chad Skelton discusses an instance of 'disgraceful' drunken antics by two Ridge Meadows RCMP officers. Last May around 3am, RCMP Const. Hughson and Frazer left a Maple Ridge bar in truck while being "highly intoxicated." Soon after, they spotted a man, Colin Frederick, walking home quietly. They stopped their truck and proceeded to physically assault Frederick stating they were "police with power." In addition, later that night the two off-duty intoxicated officers stopped another man riding his bike. As a result, they claimed he wasn't wearing a helmet so they threw bike about fifteen down the road.

Although both officers were eventually charged, both avoided registering criminal records. In other words, their punishment was the loss of 10 days pay and simply to attend an alteranative measures program.

My Critique
This is a perfect example of cops who think they are above the law. These two men are obviously power-hungry because if I get drunk, I don't drive around and beat people up. This incident reminds me of the cops in the recent movie: Superbad. Furthermore, this type of police dilinguence is absolutely inappropriate and embarrassing to the Police forces across Canada. The worst part is the preferential treatment by the courts to make the officers didn't get criminal records. What does that imply about our political and judicial systems? Or, in other words, how far can cops bend the system to justify their crimes? Does the law not apply to all citizens?

Advocacy of the Devil
Yes, these off-duty officers were in the wrong and deserve some form of punishment. However, giving them criminal records doesn't solve anything. If anything, it shows a lack of confidence in our policing systems. In all fairness, police are only human.

"RCMP Pepper Spray Baby..."

According to the RCMP's strategic priorities, they will bring down the "barometer of crime" by focusing on organized crime, terrorism, youth, aboriginal communties, and economic integrity. Wait a minute, aboriginal communities labelled as a focus to reduce crime-sounds like a stereotype to me. In other words, a perfect example of how racism is structurally embedded in our political systems.

In this particular video, the RCMP incidently use pepper spray to calm down an excited aboriginal family after a youth soccer game. Apparently even their baby was out of control. Watch and make your own assessment. One question: what kind of people are we empowering to protect and serve our communities?

"Cops to Stake Out the Net"

Similar to yesterday's post on China's internet censorship, the federal government of Canada intends to make a push towards empowering police to gain access to people's online information without a warrant. For instance, in a recent National Post article, "civil libertites groups fear erosion of privacy rights." In other words, some acivist groups are concerned that the Canadian federal government is strongly advocating for legislation that would essentially "force internet service providers to turn customers' personal information over to police without a court order." Evidently, the RCMP have been pressuring the federal government for quite some time as it would substantially improve their ability and quickness in building suspect profiles.

In November of 2005, our former Liberal government initiated the lawful access bill which is the first step in granting police with the power access anyone's internet information. However, it did not pass before the federal election was called.

My Critique
To grant police access to unwarranted internet information is simply a violation of our rights to private personal lives. Please tell me where the Privacy Act of Canada plays a role? According to the act, organizations must "obtain your consent when they collect, use or disclose your personal information." In effect,only in extreme cases should police need to access personal private internet information; and those cases warrants should be justified.

Advocacy of the Devil
Globalization and the communication power of the internet has both positive and negative implications. Unfortunately, some negative aspects include the ability for criminals to mask their identities, organize, and mobilize across the world. Not to mention the ability for 'sexual predators' on the internet to flourish. If these criminals can simply hide behind the web-isn't then, the internet a great tool for criminals to carry on their mishaps. The right to privacy does not grant us the right to be protected behind the mask that is the internet.

"Control, Outside Our Borders"

CHINESE AUTHORITIES, CENSORSHIP, AND THE INTERNET...

In the Western World, it is common opinion that the Chinese government actively controls what content the people of China access on the internet. However, a recent article in the Globe and Mail suggests that the Western perception of China's internet control is simply inaccurate. Rebecca MacKinnon, assistant professor of new media at Hong Kong University's Journalism and Media Studies Centre, argues that the Communist Party has survived the impact of the internet; and the root of the control is based on the Chinese public's "self-censorship." However, she doesn't doubt that the Chinese authorities could and would "crack down" at any moment if they believed it was necessary.

My Critique
First, I realize this post is slightly different than the rest in that it deals less with police directly-but it does question the use of power by governments. Yes, for the most part, federal governments retain the power in nations to control, influence, and censor what they please. In democracy, the notion is that we empower our governments to make decisions that are aligned with legislation and, ultimately, the Charter. That sounds okay right? Well, it's not democracy in question, but communism. In effect, communist governments seek a different kind of control and excise power, often, at will. This is simply unfair to the Chinese people-everyone should have the right view an 'objective' internet. Furthermore, the internet is not only a social medium, but a political, economical, and recreational entity; which has driven globalization. Let the internet be open to all!

Advocacy of the Devil
First of all, who is the Western World to criticize? Is it not society and the authorities on nearly all levels who are concerned with 'cyber theft,' internet sex predators, and such things as online breaches of intellectual property rights?? Obviously, some pretty serious things. Could it be realy that bad if the government screened a little? As in: less advertisements and less adult material. Maybe the Western World should take a page out of China's book!

"Sask Party Argues Cop Gets Off Too Easy"

In yet more efforts to make the other look bad, the Sask Party posed recent arguments which support the notion that a former Corman Park police officer got off too easily. That is, the Saskatoon StarPhoenix reported that Sask Party justice critic Don Morgan is arguing that a former Corman Park police officer "escaped discipline under The Police Act by quitting his position." More specifically, He was "under investigation for stalking, harassment and sexual assault." As a result of simply quitting the force, the now former officer has dodged the justice system.

Would this issue had been treated differentlty if the accused wasn't a cop? Most definitely. Morgan backs a strong and relevant argument which, essentially speaks to the notion that cops are, so to speak, 'above the law.'

The Sask Party is quick to mention that the NDP Justice Minister refused to face the public by commenting on the situation. Is it at all evident that an election is on the horizon?

"Man Dies After Being Tasered"

Two weeks ago I shared a video which shows some unethical use of tasers. Our current federal government has made it clear that they are fully supportive of police using tasers in neccessary situations. I challenge the Conseravtives to define 'necessary situations.'

Sunday, October 14th marked the last day of life for a 40 year old man at Vancouver International Airport. He was tasered by Vancouver RCMP, and later died. An article published by the ever-so-objective Vancouver Sun questions RCMP methods in Canada's latest taser death. Apparently, the man's behaviour got out of hand as he was "throwing chairs" and pounding on computer desks. He would not listen to the authories on the scene. As a result, he was tasered with 50,000 volts of electricity, and later died in a Vancouver hospital.

FIVE QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT:

1. Was this man out of control?
Yes, most likely.

2. Was he armed?
No, not according to press or authorities.

3. Should he have been physically subdued? Yes, for the safety of others.

4. Should he have been tasered?
No, it was a fatal result.

5. Where is the concern from our governments (public safety divsion)?
No idea...

"MPs Critical of Commissioner's Political Relationships "

In a recent news article by Kathryn May, Liberal MPs are arguing that new RCMP Commissioner William Elliott and certain political elite have a relationship that is "too cozy." More Specifically, Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day has been criticized by Liberal MPs for a lack of formality in what should be formal communication with William Elliott. For example, Day not only addresses him as 'Bill' in formal emails etc, but also appears to have a very 'chumy' relationship with him. Furthermore, the Liberals seemingly question Elliott's worthiness of his position.

My Critique
First, it is importsnt to have some degree of separation and level of professionalism among the leaders we empower. However, only to certain extent. In other words, co-workers referring to eachother by their first name in emails is so insignificant in the whole scheme of things. Also, whether or not the Commissioner has been in the line of duty and told "if you're a cop I'll kill you" is irrelevant. That is, Elliot's ability to manage and essentially lead our national police force is based on his core competencies, not the bullets he's taken. In reality, it seems the Liberals are making a lackluster effort to simply damage the Conservative image.

Advocacy of the Devil
Those who represent such important entities in government must always conduct themselves professionally-especially because they are often under the public eye. The leader of Canada's police force should be referred to formally. Moreover, it is fair to say that leaders or managers who have never experienced the front lines may be less effective. Can Elliott command the the necessary respect for being a national police commissioner? Well, his lack of direct police action doesn't strengthen his image.

My Observation

In response to last weeks post about the alleged police abuse at the September Rider game in Calgary, I thought it would only be appropriate to share what I observed at last Mondays Rider game in Calgary.

First of all, from my initial arrival at the football stadium in Calgary, I was careful to pay close attention to police interaction with fans. I did experience police throwing out some fans and they DID seem to be quite rough. In other words, the level of force seemed higher than needed. Also, I must say the large amount of police was astonishing. Above is an example from that day... was it really necessary to have four officers in such a concentrated area? Well, maybe if you consider the average Rider fan to be a dangerous threat to society...

"Police Abuse First Hand"

Although somewhat disturbing, watch this video and see some police abuse first hand. Since when are taser guns used on the harmless and already restrained? In my topical research I stumbled across an excellent resource where Americans who have been abused by police can go for support, information, or simply to file complaints. In addition, it is a non-governmental and non-profit police complaint center.

"Excessive Force Close to Home"

Why do police use sometimes use excessive force and is there really any justification? I think most would concur that police must only exert physical force when absolutely necessary. However, that isn't always the case.

Case in point - a recent CFL football game in Calgary. According to a recent article in the Regina Leader Post, Calgary police used excessive force in ejecting three Saskatoon fans from the game. Apparently, the fans initiated a disturbance by "standing up and cheering really loud." As a result, one of the victims claims officers "grabbed my shoulders and threw me down several aisles before cuffing me and hauling me out of the stadium." However, the fans claimed to have been sober and simply acting in a normal way for a football game. Ironically, Calgary police spokesperson Kevin Brookwell "denied that officers used excessive force," but did admit that two of the Saskatoon fans were hit by police in the ordeal.

My Critique
In some cases, emotion and ultimately frustration can influence police conduct. We are all human, but this is absolutely unacceptable. Police cannot be given the rights or power to use excessive force at will. The badge is not a ticket to
lawlessness, it is simply a sign that we the government are trusting and empowering individuals to ethically protect and serve. Furthermore, it is up to our policy makers to not only shape, but attempt to define acceptable uses of police force in certain situations. Yes, I'm sure these fans were rowdy, loud and likely obnoxious, but does that justify being hit by authority. I think not. Democratic governments will only erode corruption such as this if they decentralize the authority to grant authority. Confused? In other words, let society be more involved in recruitment, selection and training of our police officers.

Advocacy of the Devil
Although ethical police conduct is an ongoing issue, we as democratic citizens need to be slower to not only blame police, but to confide in the media. First, the police screening and training programs are designed to shape police officers into soldiers of the law. These soldiers are taught to in many situations to use their best judgement. In other words, there are simply too many situations to define in a handbook. Moreover, we need to trust in our soldiers by looking at these situations on a case by case basis without the media biases.

"Should Police Be Non-political?"

Mid-September of this year an article published in the Vancouver Courier discussed how politically active police should be.

In the last decade tools such as police boards have been established to limit corruption. However, our more recent conservative government aims to "blur the thin blue line" between police freedom of political thought and society's right to have a politically-neutral police force. That is the question-should police be forced to adopt the political ideals of our federal, provincial or even municipal governments?

From my point of view, there needs to be some consistency between government authority and police authority, but only on a very general level. In other words, our police as citizens have the right to freedom of political thought, but must never let their owns ideals hinder moral and ethical judgement.

Free Knowledge Day!

Honestly, before attending this information session I was quite unsure what to expect. Would the workshops be academic-based, politically-focused, or a little of both?

Furthermore, the session that drew interest was "Indy Media" by Patricia Elliott. The focus of this session was simply to inform people on how to not only access independent media, but how to be directly involved. She started by introducing an organization called Independent Media Center which was formed circa late-1990s in efforts to aid in the Seatle WTO Protests. It is essentially a tool for people to voice opinions and create awareness of issues that are often filtered or distorted by corporate-driven mass media. Anyone can create a membership and begin creating posts and comments within minutes. This new kind of media form was based on a decentralized network that gives a fairly uncensored free-speech opportunity with a socialist and/or anarchist vibe.

Since the development of the IMC many other sites have arisen. In particular, Act up in Sask is Saskatchewan's own independent media resource. It was started in 2005 in Saskatoon as result of activism targeting business ownership of mainstream media. The primary goal of Act up in Sask is to provide an easily-accessible open forum which not only shares skills in journalism, but promotes active democracy.

The workshops at free knowledge day covered some very important relevant information and issues from Saskatewan's economy to fair and ethical trade. However, I felt the presentations could have been more structured and focused. On the bright side, the zine and project dealing with "fair trade" was excellent. It is great to see 12 and 13 year old students care about and tackle such an important issue!

"Southern Comfort"

"Do police need more power?"

Some of us call those who protect us from crime police officers. Our neighbours to the south sometimes disagree-ie. Mr. King. As we know there are always some bad apples in the bunch, however, more often than not, governments may need to empower our protectors. Recently, Jack Aubry of CanWest News argues that many Canadians condone police lawbreaking? but how far is too far? In addition, there is question to the legitimacy of these surveys as some experts suggest our conservative government may be using them as tools to justify their own desired law changes.

My Critique
Media is a simply a tool for communication. Quite frankly, a damn good one-especially for governments wishing to suggest and influence. Yes, the power of influence is very real and very concerning. Without a true democracy, we cannot begin to concieve governement actions and decisions as Pareto efficiency Yet, we read the papers and watch television because how else would we become informed? Well, how about some objective education or maybe a little research? For most, that might be too much to ask, but for those of us who wish to dig deeper may see that Harper and his goons use subjective material to support their power of influence. In effect, it's a headline story which shows that close to half of Canadians want police to have the power to break the laws they enforce. In other words, a buffer for legislation geared at law changes.

Advocacy of the Devil
In contrast, does holding the authority's hand reduce productivity and effectiveness? Most likely. Police and simliar authority can not and must not be affraid to protect and serve. A lack of empowerment can be damaging to performance. We need police to have power otherwise we might as well hire security guards to enforce laws and keep us safe.