STREET CREW EFFECTIVE

Police have made several drug arrests on the heels of stepping up
their presence in downtown Duncan this week.

Better weather has resulted in more complaints to police of people
involved in drug activity in Duncan's parks and public spaces, said
Const. Darren Lagan.

So police brought in their Street Crew, with uniformed and
plainclothes officers, to target the downtown area with a focus on the
train station and Centennial Park.

"We, after two short days, have three people observed in drug
activity," said Lagan.

Since beginning the added patrols on Monday, police have arrested
three people for possession of a controlled substance for the purpose
of trafficking, arrested one person on an outstanding warrant, and
issued violation tickets for open liquor.

Charges for possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking are
pending against a 17-year-old female. Two males, age 20 and 21, face
charges for possession of marijuana.

"The community and police are sending a message to individuals who
choose to use public parks for illegal activity; it will not be
tolerated," Lagan says in a media release.

Police say they will continue the extra patrols as long as needed.
They are also asking the public to report suspicious behaviour,
including descriptions of people and vehicles involved, to police at
748-5522, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.