Following an extensive operation to tackle drug misuse in the Boscombe area of Bournemouth a total of 37 people have been convicted of drug supply offences, with sentences of over 70 years handed down by the courts.
In one of the biggest operations in Dorset in recent years – running since early last year – Dorset Police proactively targeted street level drug dealers.
Chris Weeks, Dorset Police Regeneration Inspector for Boscombe, said: “Our communities told us that on-street drug dealing and anti-social behaviour is a real day to day concern and we acted. One of the results is the high number of arrests and convictions achieved through Operation Moped.
“But we are not stopping here. Following on is Operation Furlong in which Dorset Police continues to focus on tackling drug dealing across Boscombe.
“Sergeant Dave Kewley is leading this operation in which uniformed officers are specifically briefed and tasked ensuring they clearly understand the local priorities and take positive action when patrolling in the area. We are aiming to apply innovative tactics alongside high visibility uniform foot patrols.
“This form of police activity sends out a clear message that if you deal drugs you will be arrested and any financial gains achieved by individuals through crime will be confiscated.
“The team’s work to date has caused significant disruption to those involved in drug dealing and members of the community have reported a reduction in on-street drug dealing.
“In Boscombe since 1 October 2014 Dorset Police made 47 arrests for drug related matters and conducted eight positive Misuse of Drugs Act warrants. Officers have also used drugs dogs on the streets in the area, which is currently a unique tactic in Dorset to use dogs in such a way during foot patrols.
“Officers also seized 35 vehicles and reported 120 people for traffic offences in a bid to disrupt drug dealing activities and seized 218 wraps of crack cocaine, 233 wraps of heroin with an estimated street value of over £4500 and confiscated £10,000 in cash from criminals.
“This style of policing will continue throughout 2015 and we want to reassure our communities that drug dealing will not be tolerated.
“I urge members of the community to report individuals who they believe are involved in drug dealing – the information will be dealt with in confidence. The more information we receive the more action we can take to disrupt and stop on-street drug dealing.”
The latest people to be sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court in relation to this operation are:
Monday 12 January 2015, 51-year-old Christopher Morrison, of Bournemouth, was sentenced to five years and eight months for supplying heroin and crack cocaine.
Tuesday 20 January 2015, 30-year-old Daniel Dyke, of Bournemouth, received three years in prison for supplying heroin and crack cocaine.
Anyone with information about possible drug offences should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.
