Philip Allott comments on the action on county lines taken in North Yorkshire
Commenting on the action on county lines taken in North Yorkshire during a national week of action, North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Philip Allott said:
“I welcome the arrests, visits and seizures made here in North Yorkshire and across the country as part of the week of action to tackle county lines drug dealing. But we should be under no illusions about the scale of the challenge we face from these organised criminals who bring tragedy to communities and scar our society.
“Too many still believe that because North Yorkshire is picturesque and rural, drugs are not a problem here. They are – and we need to do even more to get them off our streets and protect the young people who are exploited by dealers who travel here, force them to sell drugs and cause untold damage to their lives and the lives of those who buy and take illegal substances because they’re easily available and under pressure to do so.
“Ensuring we take prompt action to educate and enforce is one of my priorities as Commissioner. I have made that commitment clear to the Chief Constable and will ensure the force gets the resources and support it needs to protect those at risk, bring offenders to justice and keep our communities safe. I will do everything possible to protect the residents of North Yorkshire and York.”