Owen Sound Police say they made nine arrests during a targeted enforcement campaign to address the “open use of illicit drugs in the downtown core.”
City police say in a release officers both in uniform and plain clothes took part in a “coordinated operation” last Wednesday and Thursday (March 25-26) focused on “individuals openly consuming illicit substances in public spaces where such activity was visible to the community.”
“During the two-day operation, officers arrested nine individuals who were observed consuming illicit drugs in public,” Owen Sound Police say in a release. “Officers also seized several grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine and fentanyl.”
The release from Owen Sound Police goes on to say the service recognizes substance use is a complex issue, and they remain committed to working alongside community partners to support individuals seeking help.
“Individuals seeking support for substance use or mental health concerns are encouraged to contact 211, a free and confidential service that can connect people to a wide range of local health and social supports,” City Police say. “The Owen Sound Police Service remains committed to maintaining public safety while supporting individuals in accessing appropriate health and social services.”