PORT HARDY RCMP KEEN TO CATCH DRUG DEALERS

PORT HARDY - Citizens frustrated by drug dealers in their communities
can work with RCMP to make a difference, says Port Hardy Staff Sgt.
Chris Stewart.

"We react to information we receive," assures Stewart. "We gather as
much information as possible. Our function is to be collectors of
facts, not rumour. We react to the credible information."

Just this year the Port Hardy RCMP have conducted 70 drug -related
investigations. Those investigations have led to 41 charges being laid
and nine search warrants being executed.

"That is pretty good without a dedicated drug unit," says Stewart. "We
have 10 patrol constables and drugs leads to so many other crime
issues like theft, violence in relationships, B&Es that all have to be
dealt with."

Stewart clarifies that while all those files make it seem like there
are potentially a lot of drug dealers in the community, that's not the
case.

"We have had nine search warrants, which is a lot, but five of them
were probably on the same guy," says Stewart. "It's the same few
people over and over. We're dealing with only 15 or 20 people."

Stewart says information like license plate numbers, vehicle
descriptions, addresses and names from the public are all helpful.

"This is a small town, we all know who people are. Give us a name,"
urges Stewart. "If you know who it is tell us who it is." He adds
fears of retaliation are unfounded. "Retaliation is rare. That's the
movies," says Stewart. "It's our job to protect citizens and we will."

Stewart says once they receive tips from the community, it may take
weeks or months to successfully convict a culprit.

"My guys are not only trained to do this, they are enthusiastic about
it," says Stewart. "Gathering evidence can take weeks, month and the
evidence has to be able to stand up in court," explains Stewart.

If you have information on drug activity or any other crime, call your
local detachment of the RCMP (numbers are listed on the first page of
the phone book) or Crimestoppers.