Police use new powers to close drugs den

CHESHIRE Police today became one of the first police forces in the countr to use new powers from the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Police Act to close a drugs den in Warrington.
The new powers allowed officers to issue a three month closure order at an address in Millbrook Court, McKee Avenue, Longford.
The order, which was issued at Warrington Magistrates Court, means that the property will now be boarded up and the current occupants will not be able access the address until February next year.
The order was requested by officers from the Warrington Central Neighbourhood Policing Unit following a search warrant at the address on Monday during which a large quantity of suspected Class-A drugs were seized.
Inspector Neil Drum said: “The use of this new legislation demonstrates our commitment to tackle those causing harm to the community through crime and Anti-Social Behaviour.
“The warrant at this address was conducted as part of Operation ImpACT and it reinforces the commitment that the police and partner agencies have in targeting those people that undermine our communities and bring misery to residents through their involvement in organised crime and illegal drugs.”
Over the next three months regular checks of the premises will be conducted to ensure the closure notice is not breached.
The Anti-Social Behavior, Crime and Police Act 2014 came into force last month and means that officers are now able to apply for closure orders at premises where somebody is, or has been, causing distress or nuisance.
Inspector Drum added: “Information from members of the public is vital in the fight against drug related crime. We would urge anyone with any information in relation to drug use and supply in your community to get in touch on 101, or alternatively information can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”