Peterborough Police Tighten Up On Open Drug Use; 20 People Arrested On Drug Possession

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Peterborough Police Service frontline officers have clamped down on open drug use in downtown parks and public spaces on Tuesday and Wednesday, arresting 20 people for drug possession.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

The patrol was part of the Peterborough Police Service Safer Public Spaces approach and resulted from ongoing community complaints.

Officers on foot patrol, bike patrol and, in some cases, with assistance from the RPAS Unit providing an eyes-in-the-sky perspective, were in James Stevenson Park, Quaker Park, Stewart Street Park and on a bridge along the trail near Murray Street and McDonnel Street. 

As a result:

  • 20 people were arrested for possession of a controlled substance:  drugs/paraphernalia were seized and destroyed

  • No charges were laid (available option under the Safer Public Spaces approach)

  • 17 Provincial Offence Notice tickets were issued for Trespassing

The officers engaged in many conversations with individuals, explaining the purpose of the focused patrol and offering educational information as well as advice on where to seek counselling resources.  

“This type of focused patrol is part of our ongoing commitment to community safety in our public spaces such as city parks and trails.  Residents should know that these patrols are ongoing and will continue throughout the year. Our frontline officers also make referrals to our Addictions Specialist Team.” said Stuart Betts, Peterborough Police Chief. “I have been clear from the start; I have no tolerance for illicit drug use in and around our public spaces. It is illegal and we cannot normalize such behaviour. We have tremendous community partners who are engaged in providing medical assistance to those who engage in this activity or who are addicted to illicit substances. The police role is, and always will be, enforcement of the law. We can’t be everywhere all the time, but make no mistake, when we can get there, we will take action. My orders are clear; there is no discretion on arrest. Officers always maintain the discretion on laying charges where appropriate and based on the circumstances. The men and women of this police service are equally dedicated to community safety, and I am grateful for the work they are doing each and every day.”

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