Police drugs dog Jasper helps sniff out offenders during Paignton pubs operation
Officers visited six licensed premises in Paignton recently as they searched for illegal drugs with the help of Police Dog Jasper and his handler.
The Pubs Against Drugs operation, which aimed to disrupt the use of recreational drugs by deterring people using, carrying or supplying them, took place in the busy town on a Friday night in August.
Acting Police Sergeant Lamont, of the South Devon Performance Team, said: “This was a very well thought out and researched operation organised to remind and reassure the public that we, as the Police – along with our partner agencies – will not tolerate the use of drugs.
“We are proactive on this topic and generally find overwhelming support from our local communities whilst delivering these initiatives. We wanted to ensure that this helped set the tone as our summer draws to a close. Drugs are not welcome in South Devon.
“Not only that, but it’s an opportunity for us to encourage people to make safe decisions and to enjoy a safe night out without drugs.
“We would like to encourage local people to report any drug offences in their area to us – we are interested in information no matter how big or small it may seem.”
More than 10 stop searches were carried out, resulting in five individuals being found in possession of small quantities of drugs. Each admitted the offence and was issued with a Community Resolution (CR).
As part of the resolution, they are required to complete a mandatory online diversionary course designed to discourage future drug use and increase awareness of the impact drugs can have, not only on individuals themselves but also on the wider community.
A/Sgt Lamont added: “The purpose of CRs is to divert people from possessing or using drugs, and it’s proven that issuing these resolutions leads to better outcomes in preventing re-offending.”
The operation was carried out by the South Devon Performance Team, Neighbourhood Support Team, Professional Development Unit and Paignton Police Neighbourhood Team.