On the scent...

(Date of issue: Wednesday, 6 May 2009)

Carlisle & Eden Crime and Reduction Partnership (CDRP) has this year agreed to continue to provide funding towards the use of passive drugs dogs in both districts to deal with illegal drug use in licensed premises.

The Partnership strategy is to intervene early to prevent crime and stop people from taking drugs in nightspots across both districts. The provision of continued funding for the use of passive drugs dogs is part of that effort and it sends a clear message to those involved in illegal drug taking and supply that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated, offenders will be identified and they will be dealt with.

Passive drugs dogs are trained to sniff and sit when they pick up the scent of drugs rather than barking. The dogs are trained to locate and indicate on the wide spectrum of controlled substances and their derivatives and their noses are so sensitive they may even pick you out from your clothing if you have been in the presence of someone else using the drugs. If a dog indicates you, it could result in you being taken away for a search. A strip search is a possible outcome of a positive indication; this is both embarrassing for you and not a pleasant task for the searching officers. Shopping areas, pubs and clubs all come under the scrutiny of the drugs dogs. The dogs' response to the smell of drugs is considered suitable grounds for suspicion and a search can be legally carried out.

When the dogs are deployed officer’s work closely with the CCTV team from Carlisle City Council, licensees and door staff from local night spots to identify those suspected of misusing drugs. Based on information supplied by CCTV operators, door staff and more recently, the passive drugs dog, officer’s search anyone suspected of misusing drugs. Anybody identified by the dog is searched by an officer and charged with possession if drugs are found. The officers who accompany the passive drugs dog and handler wear head cams to record footage, which can then be used as evidence if required.

Passive drugs dogs have been used in operations in Carlisle, Penrith, Brampton, Appleby, Alston, and Kirkby Stephen. The use of the dogs is supported by licensees, who acknowledge that they sometimes have difficulties ensuring their premises remain drug free. Consequently the use of the dogs is designed to disrupt those who use and supply drugs in licensed premises. The rolling programme of operations will ensure that drug user’s run the risk of being detected if they visit the busy city and town centre licensed premises and as a result may be prosecuted and almost certainly will be banned from premises in the Pubwatch Scheme. This initiative alongside the use of drug testing kits, improved drugs awareness and the development of effective policies in licensed premises under the Best Bar None Scheme will help reduce the use of controlled drugs.

Each time a dog is used it will indicate between 20-30 people during the evening, with an average of between three and four of those people being subsequently arrested for possession of controlled drugs.

Research shows that the misuse of drugs leads to increased crime and disorder and is extremely dangerous for users themselves. The current CDRP priorities, which include contributing to a high quality of life for all and creating an environment where people can feel secure and live without the threat or fear of crime, are reflected in these performance figures. They are a testament to the hard work and dedication of all of the partners involved in helping to make Carlisle and Eden among the safest places to live in the country.

Quotes

Chair of the CDRP Violent Crime Tasking Group John Bell said:

‘’this proactive approach shows that we as a partnership are serious about tackling local issues. Working in partnership forms the basis for the CDRP’s approach to dealing with the supply of illegal drugs and the continued provision of funding towards the use of passive drugs dogs is a key tool in helping to ensure our night time economy is vibrant and safe, helping to make the area one of the safest places in which to live, work and visit.’’

Cllr Olwyn Luckley portfolio holder for Health and Communities said:

‘’this ongoing funding provision is a further demonstration of the CDRP’s commitment to working in partnership with the local community to significantly reduce drug use throughout the area, helping to ensure Carlisle remains once of the safest places in the country in which to live.’’

North Cumbria Chief Superintendent Steve Johnson said:

“the continued funding of this type of proactive operation clearly demonstrates that we are working hard to address local people’s concerns and reduce the fear of crime and the supply of illegal drugs in Carlisle and Eden. Another example of the positive action taken with our partners to make sure Carlisle and Eden remain among the safest places in the UK.’’