DRUG UNIT WAS BUSY IN 2007

The Chatham-Kent police drug unit seized more than $2.3 million in
drugs last year.

In the 64 raids officers in the drug and street crimes unit conducted,
they seized $19,170 worth of powdered cocaine, $26,358 in crack
cocaine and marijuana valued at more than $2.3 million.

That's according to the annual report of the unit, released last
week.

Deputy Chief Dennis Poole said the unit also seized $34,000 in cash,
$440,000 worth of stolen property and 11 guns.

"This unit is very busy and the work demanded of its members requires
them to be flexible and adaptive to irregular hours and unpredictable
situations," he said.

Poole said the unit was heavily involved in 2007 with the
investigation and seizure of 51 Taylor Ave. in Chatham. The property
was seized by the province under the Civil Remedies Act.

The investigation and seizure process started in early 2006 and the
building was taken over by the Attorney General's office in August
2007.

The matter is currently before the courts, with a hearing scheduled
for March 26.

Poole said the unit received a $21,000 grant from the the province's
civil remedies fund for specialized equipment.

The unit was also involved in a challenge to Chatham-Kent's
fortification bylaw, which the municipality won during a court hearing
at the end of January.