As part of its efforts to make downtown Sudbury safer, police in Greater Sudbury say they have charged several people downtown with several offences, seizing $3,000 in drugs and $320 in cash in the process. “Street-level drug trafficking poses a significant threat to the safety, security and well-being of our community,” police said in an Aug. 26 news release. A police initiative from Aug. 18-21 focused on drug dealing downtown, leading to four arrest warrants being executed, another seven arrests for various offences and 11 more drug-related charges being laid. Items seized include a set of brass knuckles, 20 grams of crack, 6.7 grams of fentanyl, 17 hydromorphone pills and a codeine pill. While the size of the seizures are small, police said they have a bigger impact. “While these may not represent the largest drug seizures, the impact of these arrests is significant,” the release said. “By targeting street-level drug trafficking, officers are helping to reduce the availability of illicit drugs and disrupt associated criminal activity in the downtown core. Enforcement efforts aimed at addressing open drug use and drug trafficking will continue in the downtown core and surrounding areas.” Police said specialized units are focused on the area, developing relationships that help officers collect information on the drug trade. “Through regular foot and bike patrols, officers build relationships with residents and businesses, respond to crimes in progress, and address individuals who pose an elevated risk to public safety through warrant apprehension and bail compliance,” the release said. “The Greater Sudbury Police Service continues to take a coordinated, intelligence-led approach to drug enforcement through proactive investigations, community engagement, and strong collaborative partnerships. Together, we remain committed to disrupting illicit drug activity and enhancing public safety.”
