Yellowknife (May 16/03) - The RCMP are trying to make sure people with FAS who don't have a clear understanding of their actions don't end up in court.

They plan to train members to recognize the symptoms of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

"It's a wide variety of symptoms," said Const. Dino Norris. "It could be as simple as a speech impediment."

He added if someone is readily agreeing to everything an officer says, alarm bells should go off.

"Most FAS sufferers will more than likely agree with everything you say just so they can go home," he said.

"People with FAS will say they are guilty even when though they're not."

Since it is sometimes difficult to determine whether someone has FAS, the RCMP have partnered with the Department of Health and Social Services.

When officers suspect someone suffers from FAS, they will contact the department's experts to see if the person has a history with Social Services and if they suffer from FAS.

"Obviously, we are not going to pursue matters that an individual has no control over.

"We are going to focus on getting them the help they need and deserve."