Pubdate: Tue, 14 Aug 2012
Source: Worthing Herald (UK)
Copyright: 2012 Worthing Herald
Contact:  http://www.worthingherald.co.uk
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3115

WORTHING POLICE TAKE ACTION ON 'MEOW MEOW'

AN INCREASE in young people using a drug known as "Meow Meow" 
prompted police to hold an educational drive.

On the evenings of 10 and 11 August, police officers provided 
informative leaflets to door staff in the town centre, with support 
from Worthing's Street Pastors who also handed out leaflets.

A news item was broadcast on Splash FM, giving young people 
information and knowledge about the dangers of this drug.

Social media is also being used to highlight this subject to young 
people who follow twitter via Sussex Police  or on 
Facebook via Worthing Npt.

The multi-agency Worthing Action Group have raised concerns that 17 
young people had reported the use of Mewo Meow, a class B drug, in 
the last eight months, compared with just one case last year, so it 
was decided that an educational drive was needed.

Meow Meow, properly known as mephedrone, featured in the media two 
years ago as a legal 'high', prior to it being reclassified as a class B drug.

It can produce some unpleasant side-effects and some of the 17 young 
people have had to have treatment at hospital as a result.

Some were found by police officers while others were referred to 
hospital by other agencies. However, none of the young people have 
had any lasting effects.

PCSO Kevin Brown, who is managing the initiative, said: "This is 
really a reminder to young people that you do not know what you are 
getting when you buy mystery substances from strangers, acquaintances 
or friends. So far no arrests have been made but we are continuing to 
pay attention to this issue and always welcome information about any 
drug dealing in the area. You can contact us direct or call 
independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55 111."
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom