Pubdate: Sat, 15 Apr 2006 Source: Cowichan News Leader (CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Cowichan News Leader Contact: http://www.cowichannewsleader.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1314 Author: Angie Poss STREET CREW EFFECTIVE Police have made several drug arrests on the heels of stepping up their presence in downtown Duncan this week. Better weather has resulted in more complaints to police of people involved in drug activity in Duncan's parks and public spaces, said Const. Darren Lagan. So police brought in their Street Crew, with uniformed and plainclothes officers, to target the downtown area with a focus on the train station and Centennial Park. "We, after two short days, have three people observed in drug activity," said Lagan. Since beginning the added patrols on Monday, police have arrested three people for possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, arrested one person on an outstanding warrant, and issued violation tickets for open liquor. Charges for possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking are pending against a 17-year-old female. Two males, age 20 and 21, face charges for possession of marijuana. "The community and police are sending a message to individuals who choose to use public parks for illegal activity; it will not be tolerated," Lagan says in a media release. Police say they will continue the extra patrols as long as needed. They are also asking the public to report suspicious behaviour, including descriptions of people and vehicles involved, to police at 748-5522, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin