OPP will be ready for final Hempfest
By: Michael Purvis, The Sault Star (CN ON), 08-19-09

Expect the same police presence at this year's Hempfest, says Blind River Ontario Provincial Police.

The annual celebration of marijuana, medical and otherwise, is set to spark up Aug. 27- 30 for the last time, its organizers blaming rising costs and undue attention from police for the event's demise.

OPP officers will be there, doing RIDE checks, "cracking down on speeders and just out there doing their jobs," said Const. Wayne Berthelot, community services officer at the Blind River detachment.

Organizers of Hempfest, which is held near the tiny community of Poplar Dale northeast of Sault Ste. Marie, have criticized OPP for enforcement that they say goes beyond a simple impaired driving checkpoint.

Last year, OPP laid dozens of charges, mostly for motor vehicle infractions, and a handful of drug-related offences.

"Just because you're doing a RIDE check doesn't negate the fact that other offences are being committed," said Berthelot.

He said other area events of similar scope also draw an increased police presence, including Blind River Community Days, and the annual July drag racing event in Elliot Lake.

Many Hempfest attendees identify themselves as medical users, but event organizers acknowledge the four-day festival is not devoid of recreational use.

Berthelot said he couldn't comment on whether the nature of the event contributes to an increased police presence.

"I've never been up there. I can't comment on what goes on up there," said Berthelot.

Hempfest organizer Rob Waddell could not immediately be reached for comment Tuesday.

© 2004 H.U.M.A.N.: Hemp Users Medical Access Network - Toronto Medical Marijuana