OFFICERS from one local neighbourhood policing team have made thirty arrests and seized over half a million pounds worth of drugs in the last six months.
The Barnsley North East Neighbourhood Policing Team, which covers Royston and Cudworth and surrounding areas, has recently been clamping down on drug related-crime.
Of the 30 arrests, 24 people have been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, with 23 of the arrests made following stop searches and one following a warrant executed by officers. Out of this, 11 people have now been charged, with three of these people charged in relation to a significant drugs line. The other individuals remain on bail while enquiries are ongoing.
Twelve people have also been arrested for drug driving offences within the Barnsley North East area.
It is estimated that the value of drugs seized following the stop searches is worth over £10,000.
Additionally, officers in Royston also dismantled a cannabis farm towards the end of last year where the plants seized were worth an estimated £500,000.
Following local intelligence, officers from the Barnsley North East NPT have been working swiftly to take those involved in drugs-related crime off the streets of the town.
Barnsley Inspector Rebecca Richardson said: “We know drugs-related crime is an issue within Barnsley, especially within the Barnsley North East area, and we are fully committed to ensuring that we put those responsible behind bars.
“We have seen a particular increase recently in the number of motorists on the roads who are under the influence of drugs, which is extremely worrying and puts other innocent road users at risk. One in five fatal road traffic collisions involve a drug driver, and anyone caught driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol can find themselves looking at a six-month prison term, a fine of up to £5,000 and a minimum 12 months’ driving ban.
“I want to make it very clear to anyone involved in drugs-related crime – do not think that you will not be caught. We have no tolerance for drugs in our town, and thanks to our local communities who have made numerous reports to us in the last six months, we have been able to quickly take action.
“We know that we are stronger with our communities’ help, and we want to ensure that the town is a safe place to live, work and visit. I encourage the residents of Barnsley to continue to tell us about the issues you are facing within your community. We will listen, and we will continue to work hard to ensure more criminals are put behind bars.
“If you see your local officers out and about in your area, please do stop and speak to them if you have any concerns as they are there to help. You can also report to us on 101 or using our online portal on our website.”
