DRUGS TOP LIST OF CONCERNS FOR SAFER STREETS

The word echoed the room last night when Pictou County residents were
asked about the causes of crime in the area.

About two dozen area residents and police officers attended the
provincial task force meeting in New Glasgow last night that was held
to gain input on safer streets and communities.

Area residents say drug use is a growing problem in the region that
contributes to other problems like theft and vandalism.

One woman, who said she lives in the north end of New Glasgow, said a
known drug dealer lives across the street from her.

"We want it cleaned up," she said.

James Street is another hot spot, added another man. A neighbouring
house is a local teen hangout, and it's common to have 20 or 30 youths
in the middle of the street at all hours of the night.

"I have a two year old daughter who can't sleep at night," said the
man. "We spent $2,000 to fence our back yard and we can't sit out in
the evenings because the air is just blue with language."

Both residents say they're very frustrated and are constantly calling
the police on the issue, but they feel the hands of the police are
tied due to strict laws.

Sgt. Kevin Scott with New Glasgow Police said it's easy to identify
young people who may be at risk of committing crimes or doing drugs in
a few years time.

"They don't just fall out of a tree and start doing drugs overnight,"
Scott said.

It's hoped that the introduction of a new integrated police force will
help tackle drug crimes. But that's not enough, residents said, adding
that stricter laws around drugs and the youth justice act are needed
to reduce the problem.

The task force, made up of volunteers, is holding a series of meetings
around the province to gain public input on what can be done to make
communities safer.

Residents can still make comments by visiting the website at
http://www.gov.ns.ca/just/minister/safer_streets.asp or calling
co-ordinator Carol Shepard Conrad at 902-424-8647.