Canadian Police Keep the Peace by Handing Out Lollipops

Canadian police are taking a page from parents and handing out lollipops to inebriated pedestrians to keep them from fighting after the bars let out. The Victoria, British Columbia initiative was successful on Canada Day, and now Councillor Charlayne Thornton-Joe wants to roll it out every night in downtown Victoria.

Thornton-Joe was inspired by a U.K. effort that also involves bar staff and police officers doling out lollipops. Mike Tucker, a spokesman for the Victoria Police Department, notes that since cops are already carrying about 11 pounds of gear on their belts, it's more advantageous for bartenders and other nightclub staff to hand them out than cops.