Woodstock Police take more illicit drugs off the street

Woodstock Police have taken nearly $10,000 of illegal drugs off the street as a result of a recent bust. (Woodstock Police Photo).

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

It may not be the biggest bust in the city’s history but the Woodstock Police Service is pleased to see some hard-core drugs off city streets.

On Monday, Nov. 18 the force’s Criminal Intelligence and Drug Enforcement Unit, with the assistance of the WPS Emergency Response Unit, Canine Unit, and Uniform Patrol, a search warrant was executed in the city.

A 42-year-old is in custody, facing charges of three counts of possession of Schedule I substances for the purpose of trafficking and one count of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000.

A 32-year-old male is also in custody following the bust on outstanding warrants. During the investigation, police seized a street value of approximately $9,500 worth of suspected fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine and hydromorphone, and $450 in Canadian currency.

Inspector Jamie Taylor said any amount of drugs taken out of circulation is a positive.

“$10,000 worth of drugs will make a difference. We know that when one goes down another one pops up, but our drug intelligence officers are working around the clock. They are sending a message, saying if you’re dealing drugs in Woodstock, we’re coming to get you.”

Taylor pointed to the service’s mission statement, “Dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of our community. The officers we have working on the drug trade are focused, motivated and they are good at what they do.”

Taylor said as the drug problem in Woodstock has gotten worse, the number of related crimes has followed suit.

“It snowballs. It leads to so many different crimes in our city. Some people can’t afford to buy drugs so they’re out stealing, breaking into cars and also committing acts of violence. They need their drugs. This bust will make a big impact in the city and we aren’t done yet.”

A recent bust in Woodstock confiscated nearly $150,000 worth of illegal drugs, and although this one may pale in comparison, Taylor said the same charges are involved.

“The charge is still possession for the purpose of trafficking. It’s a solid trafficking case and we are ready for the next one.”

Every police force faces criticism for one reason or another, but Taylor said Woodstock police receive far more positive support than negative.

“Members of the public are standing behind us. We are seeing a lot of likes and shares on our Facebook posts and that’s all our officers need to see. There has been a good shift and a lot of very good, proactive police work going on. I’m happy to be a part of it.”