Second thoughts on DC police searches of people's homes

D.C. apparently has had second thoughts about this program:

D.C. police have decided to substantially alter a program designed to rid homes of guns after concerns from the council and civil libertarians.

The Safe Homes Initiative was scheduled to launch March 24. Police planned to go door to door in crime-plagued neighborhoods, asking residents for permission to search their homes for guns and drugs.

In return for cooperation, and getting contraband off the streets, D.C. police promised homeowners and renters limited amnesty for anything seized by police.

Police now say the program will be entirely volunteer -- officers will only search homes by appointment at the request of the resident. The scaled-back program is slated to begin in mid-June.

The program is aimed at removing guns and drugs kept by children and young adults in their parents' homes. The homeowners will be asked to sign a form, consenting to the search. . . .