The sale and trafficking of illegal drugs can quickly ruin a neighbourhood. It typically results in
- lowered property values
- more criminal activity, such as break-and-enters and theft from vehicles
- associated problems such as street-level sex trade
The Ottawa Police Service Drug and Street Crime Unit are very active in investigating and prosecuting drug traffickers in the City of Ottawa. You can help them in their efforts by being vigilant in your neighbourhood. Signs that drugs are being sold in a public place, like a street corner or park, include:
- Cars driving slowly and repeatedly in an area
- Money or small packages being exchanged
- Drug paraphernalia at or near the location, such as very small zip-lock plastic baggies, small bundled or twisted pieces of cellophane, small pieces of balloon, hypodermic needles, and needle caps or small glass vials or pipes
- Increased levels of sex trade in the neighbourhood
- Suspicious behaviour of individuals you might not know hanging around street corners or open pay phones
- High levels of theft in the surrounding area
Always use common sense in situations where illegal activity is taking place. Remember, never put yourself in danger.
In some cases, if issues are ongoing in your neighbourhood, you can talk to other concerned neighbours and work with them to come up with options to address the problems.
Don’t be afraid to call to police when you’re not comfortable with a situation in your neighbourhood. The police are your partners in community safety.
If you suspect that drugs are being trafficked in your neighbourhood, report it to the police. Call 613-236-1222, ext. 7300. You can also report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 613-233-TIPS (8477) or 1-800-222-8477
