Operation Falcon tackles drugs in the Thames Valley (Status: Press release)

As part of National Tackling Drugs Week, which starts on Monday (19/5), Thames Valley Police is highlighting its commitment and ongoing work to tackle drugs in its neighbourhoods.
Operation Falcon was launched in 2006 with the emphasis on partnership working and finding ways to tackle drug issues from different angles using the different authorities and services provided, as well us using enforcement such as arrests and drugs warrants.

Dr Shona Morrison, Force Drugs Coordinator, said: ?Reducing drug-related crime and offending continues to be a key Government priority. Thames Valley Police are committed to continue to help deliver this priority through the continuation of Operation Falcon.

?Falcon involves working closely with partner agencies, such as local Drug Action Teams (DATs), to address drug problems in the longer term. In all parts of Thames Valley police and partners have signed up to this shared approach to tackling drug supply and drug-related criminality.

?We aim to prevent displacement of drug markets and to encourage drug users into treatment. The Drugs Intervention Program (DIP) is the primary vehicle for this, which involves drug testing and assessing those arrested for specific offences, then ensuring that subsequent community sentences or prison terms involve access to relevant drug treatment.

?Drug enforcement in the Thames Valley is prioritised to deal swiftly with gangs and individual dealers who cause the greatest harm to the communities in which they operate. For instance, crack house legislation has now been enacted in every police Basic Command Unit (BCU) and neighbourhood officers receive regular updates of community concerns about drugs through Neighbourhood Action Groups (NAGs).

?We publicise successes in relation to enforcement and drug treatment referral with a view to reassuring the public that their concerns are being heard and are being tackled effectively. We are also using a range of communication techniques, such as leaflet drops, during and after drugs enforcement activity to provide the public with information and advice about the nature of the operation, and the agencies that can be contacted for further information or assistance.?