Eight arrests during downtown drug enforcement

Eight people were arrested Wednesday during a directed Guelph Police Service patrol initiative aimed at addressing public illicit drug use downtown.

Those arrested had their illegal substances seized and were offered information on available supports before being released.

Two men and a woman were charged with possessing controlled substances after officers saw them smoking from pipes in clear view of members of the public and in areas where children and vulnerable community members were present. They were released with upcoming court dates.

In the spring of 2023, the Guelph Police Service launched a supplemental staffing initiative which sees patrol officers dedicated to the downtown area on a daily basis. One of the goals of this unit is to address perceived public safety concerns in the core, including open drug use and associated criminal activity.

The Guelph Police Service follows a health-first approach to drug dependency and works with our community partners and social service agencies to seek health-related solutions whenever possible. However, we also recognize downtown is the heart of the community and must be safe and welcoming for all who live, work and visit. (Occurrence number GU26039741)