A large quantity of meth and other drugs were seized by the OPP in North Perth and the Township of Minto in late August. (Photo provided by West Region OPP)A large quantity of meth and other drugs were seized by the OPP in North Perth and the Township of Minto in late August. (Photo provided by West Region OPP)
Windsor

Police chiefs call for decriminalization of illicit drugs

There is a call to decriminalize personal possession of illicit drugs, and it comes from the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police.

The association is recommending all police agencies across the country to recognize substance abuse and addiction as a public health issue.

It wants a national task force to research drug policy reform, specifically Section 4 (1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

"Canada continues to grapple with the Fentanyl crisis and a poisoned drug supply that has devastated our communities and taken thousands of lives," said President Chief Constable Adam Palmer. "We recommend that enforcement for possession give way to an integrated health-focused approach that requires partnerships between police, healthcare, and all levels of government."

The Association of Chiefs suggested by increasing access to healthcare, treatment, and social services, those who are suffering from an addiction would be diverted from the criminal justice system and instead get the help they need. The proposal would apply to those in possession of small or predetermined amounts of illicit drugs for personal use.

The association said it would improve health and safety outcomes for those who use drugs while reducing property crime, demand for drugs, and repeat offences.

"While law enforcement continues to be required to stop those putting poisoned and illegal substances on our streets, the traditional role of frontline policing has fundamentally shifted to harm reduction," added Palmer. "Frequently, our officers are the point of first contact and the ones who will assist individuals in accessing appropriate services and pathways to care."

In March 2018, the association created a special committee to study the decriminalization of illicit drugs and its impact on public safety.

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