Drugs
There’s no denying the link between drug use and crime.
It’s estimated that a third of all property crime is related to
drugs and around three quarters of crack cocaine and heroin users
admit committing crime to feed their habit.*
By tackling drug use we can reduce crime.
National Drug Strategy
We’re working to reduce drug crime by supporting
the Government’s 2008 – 2018 National Drug Strategy.
The plan aims to restrict the supply of illegal drugs and reduce
the demand for them. It has four strands:
- Protecting communities through tackling drug supply,
drug-related crime and anti-social behaviour
- Preventing harm to children, young people and families affected
by drug misuse
- Delivering new approaches to drug treatment and social
re-integration
- Public information campaigns, communications and community
engagement
To help carry out that plan Essex Police works in partnership
with three Drug and Alcohol Action Teams (known as DAATs)
throughout the county. One is responsible for Southend, one for
Thurrock and the third for
the rest of Essex.
Each of the teams is made up of representatives from health,
probation, education and council services as well as HM Customs and
Excise and HM Prison Service.
The teams work to reduce the use of illegal drugs and
rehabilitate drug users, thus helping to reduce drug-related
crime.
Reporting drug crime
We’re working to break the chain between drug use
and crime but we need your help. If you’re concerned about drug use
or dealing in your area, no matter how small, we want to know.
To report drug activity please contact your neighbourhood
support officer or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on
0800 555 111.
*Information from the Home Office.
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