Sudbury police have announced plans to start making arrests of individuals openly using drugs in the downtown area if deemed essential. Chief Sara Cunningham conveyed during the recent police services board meeting that while the police will maintain a “support first, enforcement last” strategy, they will now focus on enforcing laws against public drug use when necessary.
Individuals who persist in openly using drugs despite being offered assistance may face enforcement actions, which will be determined on a case-by-case basis by officers, Cunningham elaborated. This shift in approach follows concerns raised by downtown businesses and residents regarding the visible drug use and safety issues in the area.
Cunningham emphasized the need to address the prevalent open-air drug use and the presence of needles scattered throughout downtown, stating that such behavior is unlawful and will not be tolerated any longer. A 30-day downtown initiative will be implemented starting from November 1, involving increased police presence in the core and a collaborative effort with city outreach workers and emergency medical services.
The initiative will see dedicated downtown enforcement from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. during peak times of the day, Cunningham mentioned. Additionally, the police have engaged with federal Crown prosecutors to ensure drug-related cases move forward in court and have coordinated with the superintendent of the Sudbury District Jail to connect individuals leaving custody with support services.
Regarding the redirection of individuals using the “not here, not now” approach, Cunningham stated that they will be directed to Energy Court, where support services are available. The ultimate goal, she highlighted, is to help individuals break free from drug dependence by providing the necessary support.
Deputy Police Chief Natalie Hiltz informed the board that officers have been actively targeting drug dealing and open-air drug markets in the downtown core since January. Notably, significant drug seizures totaling nearly $1 million have been made, impacting drug supply and the existing open-air drug markets. Over 100 drug charges have been laid, and approximately 40 individuals involved in drug trafficking have been arrested.
Furthermore, the board was briefed on the success of the “not here, not now” initiative, which has facilitated over 7,000 interactions with individuals in the downtown core. Hiltz emphasized the critical role of public health in addressing the public health crisis associated with drug use while underscoring the importance of police intervention when deemed necessary, particularly in the current circumstances in the downtown area.