BOSTON RESIDENTS are right to be concerned about the proposed Boston Police "Safe Homes" program ("Police set to search for guns at homes," City & Region, Feb. 9). While the American Civil Liberties Union joins in widespread community support for stopping gun violence, we cannot condone warrantless searching of people's homes.
If Boston residents open their doors to the police under this program, they may be subject to prosecution if a gun found in the home is linked to a crime or if police find drugs or anything else illegal. Anything police find may also lead to school discipline, including expulsion, and may be reported to the Department of Social Services and Boston housing authorities.
The ACLU has urged the Police Department to agree to immunity from prosecution for items found in people's homes during these searches. We also are working with community groups and individuals concerned that their rights may be violated by the plan.
Boston residents have the right to say no when the police come to their door without a warrant. And when they do, the police should leave.
CAROL ROSE
Executive director ACLU of Massachusetts
Boston
