Officials say OPP officers recently concentrated their efforts in areas close to local high schools “known to be frequented by drug users.”
Wellington County OPP “continues to analyze, understand and address public safety trends throughout the county,” police stated in a press release.
Officials say a review of drug possession incidents revealed several popular locations “frequented by those engaging in the drug culture” near the four county high schools in Palmerston, Fergus, Mount Forest and Erin.
For the last several weeks, both uniform and plain clothes officers patrolled these areas in vehicles and on foot in an effort to combat the amount of drug activity taking place near the schools, police say.
“As a result of these strategic focused patrols, officers interacted with a number of local residents as well as several students, to assist in addressing illegal drug concerns,” stated the OPP press release.
“Several hours of officer patrol were committed which resulted in deterring the offenders, however in one instance a quantity of marijuana was seized by police with charges laid.”
Wellington County OPP Inspector Scott Lawson stated the local force “is committed to actively addressing key public safety concerns in our community.
“By continuing our efforts to enhance strategic patrols through problem identification, we are better positioned to deal with the activity and thus the overall deployment of our officers. Our community plays an important part in this endeavour, we need their input and support to address these criminal and traffic issues together.”
Noting that officers rely on the public to provide information, police urge anyone who witnesses a crime or “suspicious activity” to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Tip providers may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.
