A £630,000 drug testing initiative, to tackle crime and reduce offending, has been launched across police custody suites in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
The Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, has provided £480,950 of funding from the Drug Confiscation Fund (DCF) along with a further financial boost from the Home Office of £150K.
Commenting, Donna said:
“There is a clear link between drug dependency and crime so this initiative helps to steer people into support programmes that break that cycle, so we can reduce crime and protect victims.
“If a person is arrested for a trigger offence, which largely relates to theft including burglary, robbery and stealing cars, they can be required to take a drugs test.
“If they test positive, they can then be required to attend a drug assessment. This assessment is broader than drug use and provides a good opportunity to encourage ongoing engagement with community based services.
“This is about supporting offenders by looking at the whole picture, and helping them get the support they need whilst reducing offending.”
Leo Docherty MP said:
"By implementing an approach of drug testing on arrest with a multi-agency approach, those offending can be offered the support needed to open up a pathway into rehabilitation.
"By tackling the problem at its root, focusing on treatment and recovery, and reducing drug demand, this will lead to lower crime rates."
Pictured, Donna Jones Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire & Isle of Wight