STANDING STRONG AGAINST DRUGS

New Phone Number 310-Cops Created To Stop Drug Trafficking In The
Community

Reporting drug-related crime is as easy as picking up the phone.

The RCMP launched a new phone number, 310-COPS (2677), so citizens can
report a drug house if they suspect one.

"Drug trafficking has become a major community concern," said
Wetaskiwin RCMP Staff Sgt. Tim Ashmore.

"It's important community members partner with RCMP to combat illegal
drug activity to make our communities safer."

Under the name Report a Drug House, this crime-reporting mechanism has
seen much success in other communities, such as Edmonton's south division.

The program was founded there by Const. Dave Woudstra and Const.
Maurice Brodeur of Edmonton Police Service.

Both believe the main component of Report a Drug House is community
involvement, something which Ashmore completely agrees with.

"The Wetaskiwin and Hobbema RCMP hope our residents use the phone line
to report suspected drug activity. Help us help you," said Ashmore.

Residents will receive a fridge magnet and postcard which outlines the
program. For Wetaskiwin and Millet residents, these will be included
in their regular utility bills.

County and Hobbema residents will receive theirs directly through the
mail.

When reporting suspected drug activity

* Call the 310-COPS phone number and choose the correct location
option

* Describe the address of the residence and your
neighbourhood

* Describe the activity surrounding the premises and what you
suspect is happening there

* The RCMP encourage callers to leave their name and phone number,
but tips may be made anonymously

The report will be checked out by an RCMP officer and all information
is confidential.

In addition to this new phone number, Wetaskiwin Community Solutions
has a new name -- Standing Strong Against Drugs.

"I think it has a stronger message as to what the committee is trying
to do. The main goal is to raise awareness of substance abuse issues
in our community," said SAD co-ordinator Lynne James.

As a teacher at Sacred Heart School, she hears about drug use through
her students.

"Other teachers and citizens who have been here awhile, they hear more
and more about drug use and the drug trade."

She thinks Report a Drug House, SAD's flagship program, will go a long
way in combating drug problems in the community.

But that success depends on people using the tool which is in front of
them.

"We're paying for the phone line. We need their help reporting."

She reminds the public, if they see suspicious drug-related activity,
do not be silent.