A helicopter descended yesterday as thrilled students witnessed a drug-bust simulation at Island and Wilcox elementary schools, part of a stepped-up demonstration of what law enforcement does to confiscate marijuana crops. The re-enactment, designed to educate children at an early
A helicopter descended yesterday as thrilled students witnessed a drug-bust simulation at Island and Wilcox elementary schools, part of a stepped-up demonstration of what law enforcement does to confiscate marijuana crops.
The re-enactment, designed to educate children at an early age about drugs and the dangers surrounding them, was done in the morning at Wilcox Elementary and in the afternoon at Island School. The two demonstrations were the only ones done at schools this year, but the Kaua‘i Police Department has done drug eradication demonstrations in previous years for Kapa‘a Middle School, Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School, Kalaheo Elementary School and Koloa Elementary School.
“The demonstration is part of the cannabis eradication and suppression program,” said Michael Contrades, acting lieutenant of vice for the narcotics enforcement unit.
KPD, with the help of its vice and traffic units, youth services division and Special Services Team, re-enacted what they do for “green harvesting,” in which helicopters sweep in through an intensive surveillance program and seize marijuana.
On a rope below the helicopter, Danny Olivera, a narcotics police officer, dangled and waved to students as he and the pilot circled in.
Onlooking students waved back, dancing to the large speakers blaring “Bad Boys,” by Inner Circle, the theme song to the TV show “Cops.”
Pua Scribner, also a police narcotics officer, confronted an actor playing a drug dealer and handcuffed him in front of five fake marijuana plants.
After the “skit,” as Contrades called it, students were given stickers, pencils and colorful backpack patches promoting a drug-free Hawai‘i.
Students were also shown displays of drug paraphernalia, including glass and water pipes, and photographs depicting the negative effects of alcohol.
The simulated helicopter bust intrigued several students, prompting them to ask officers questions about their gear, like the helmets and vests.
Starting education at such a young age is crucial in crime prevention, Contrades said.
“That’s where it all begins,” he said. “If we can educate young people, perhaps we can prevent drug use in the future.”
In 2005, KPD seized 3,009 marijuana plants. So far for 2006, 7,565 marijuana plants have been confiscated.
• Amanda C. Gregg, staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 252) or agregg@kauaipubco.com.
