Police visibility drive leads to drugs arrest

Cameron Weldon
BBC News, Devon
BBC A police car parked on a street in PlymouthBBC
Devon & Cornwall Police said around 2kg of cannabis was seized as a result of the initiative

A police initiative for officers to be more visible in parts of Plymouth through "proactive engagement" is reaping rewards , the force has said.

Devon and Cornwall Police visited more than 50 addresses in the Stonehouse area of the city as part of the scheme.

Following the visits and an engagement session, the force said it had received information that led to an arrest on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cannabis and about 2kg of the substance seized.

Insp Greg Bridgett said it was important to show that officers are "supportive, compassionate and approachable" and the scheme would continue across the city for the rest of the year.

'Regular presence'

The engagement session provided an opportunity for the public to meet the officers working in their area.

They also went to a local school to try and form a positive relationship with young people.

Insp Bridgett said: "We know that seeing a police officer can have a huge impact on our communities, both on the safety of the area and also by providing a reassuring presence on our streets.

"We want to make sure that everyone feels able to come forward to report crime or ask for help.

"By having a regular presence on our streets and in our neighbourhoods, we hope to achieve that."

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