POLICE officers from just one area of Barnsley have made 30 arrests for drug-related crime over the last six months - seizing more than £500,000 worth of illegal substances in the process.
Barnsley’s North East Neighbourhood Policing Team, whose patch stretches across Grimethorpe and Cudworth, have been clamping down on drug-related crime following concerns from local residents.
Of the 30 people who have been arrested, 24 people have been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, with 23 of the arrests made following stop searches and one following a warrant executed by officers.
Eleven of those people have now been charged, with three charged in relation to a significant drugs line.
The other individuals remain on bail while enquiries are ongoing.
As well as this, 12 people have been arrested for drug-driving offences within the neighbourhood team’s area alone.
It is estimated that the value of drugs seized following the stop searches is worth over £10,000.
Additionally, officers in Royston also dismantled a cannabis farm towards the end of last year where the plants seized were worth an estimated £500,000.
Inspector Rebecca Richardson said: “We know drug-related crime is an issue within Barnsley, especially within the north-east area, and we are fully committed to ensuring that we put those responsible behind bars.
“We have seen a particular increase recently in the number of motorists on the roads who are under the influence of drugs, which is extremely worrying and puts other innocent road users at risk.
“One in five fatal road traffic collisions involve a drug driver, and anyone caught driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol can find themselves looking at a six month prison term, a fine of up to £5,000 and a minimum 12-month driving ban.
“I want to make it very clear to anyone involved in drugs-related crime - do not think that you will not be caught.
“We have no tolerance for drugs in our town, and thanks to our local communities who have made numerous reports to us in the last six months, we have been able to quickly take action.
“We know that we are stronger with our communities’ help, and we want to ensure that the town is a safe place to live, work and visit.
“I encourage the residents of Barnsley to continue to tell us about the issues you are facing within your community.
“We will listen, and we will continue to work hard to ensure more criminals are put behind bars.
“If you see your local officers out and about in your area, please do stop and speak to them if you have any concerns as they are there to help.
“You can also report to us on 101 or using our online portal on our website.”
