POLICE SCHOOL CRACKDOWN LEADS TO DRUG CHARGES

LAKESHORE - Six youths were found with marijuana during a joint police
operation at Belle River High School.

The Essex County OPP Youth Crimes Officer, the OPP Drug Enforcement
Unit, and Lakeshore OPP officers conducted patrols in the area of the
school during the lunch period last Friday.

A total of six youths were arrested and police seized 15.9 grams of
marijuana with a street value of about $300, a quantity of cash and
digital scales.

Five of the youths, including four 17-year-old males and a 16-year-old
female, have been assigned to the Essex County Diversion Program.

A sixth youth was released without charges.

Police say they will be continuing such patrols at high schools in
Essex County patrolled by the OPP.

"We're going to be doing more joint patrols to get the message out
that drugs are illegal and don't belong at a school or anywhere near a
school," said Const. Janet Hayes.

Hayes said police are receiving great co-operation from the schools
and have been taking advantage of two new youth officers assigned
since September.

"We are taking a very strong stand on this," said Hayes.