The recent ruling by the B.C. Supreme Court changes the drunk driving law to make it unreasonable for drivers who blow over .08 to get a 90-day suspension.
However, it is deemed reasonable for drivers who blow .05 and up to .08 to get a 30-day suspension and probably $4,000 in charges.
This leaves the question: Why is it reasonable to allow a police officer to act as “judge, jury and executioner” (a term used in a newspaper article) in the case of drivers with blood alcohol levels of .05 up to .08, but unreasonable for them to act the same way in cases where the level is over .08?
Why is it reasonable to seize a person’s vehicle for three, seven, or 30 days and deny that person due process of law.
The police officer should issue a summons to drivers with blood alcohol levels of .05 and up to .08, so the driver can have his or her day in court.
If the police officer should not act as “judge, jury and executioner,” then we should ensure they do not act as “judge, jury etc.” in any type of police case.
Roger Layton
