Neighbours help shut down crack den

POLICE arrested four people in relation to drugs offences and carried out a “crack house closure” after residents helped them gather evidence of drug dealing at a flat.

Doncaster’s Antisocial Behaviour Team were able to carry out the crack house closure at a flat on North Gate, Mexborough, after people living nearby helped them compile reports of drug dealing and antisocial behaviour at the property.

Evidence of drugs use had been found outside the property—occupied by a 28-year-old woman—and suspicious visitors made some people living in the vicinity too frightened to leave their homes.

But after police officers worked with Community Crime Fighters and residents to gather evidence about the comings-and-goings at the flat, they were able to swoop.

A police spokesman said: “In November, a warrant was issued to search the premises, the  tenant wasn’t there but police found three people in the flat.

“One man was found with what is believed to be heroin on him and after a search of all the rooms further drugs and numerous needles were found stashed in various places.

“A 32-year-old woman and two 43-year-old men were arrested and have been bailed pending further enquiries.”

Police also arrested a 21-year-old man outside the flat for being in possession of crack cocaine.

His home was also searched where police found weighing scales and other drug paraphernalia.

He has also been bailed until the New Year pending further enquiries.

Doncaster Magistrates’ Court made the flat subject to a crack house closure order on December 16, meaning that nobody can enter the premises for the next three months.

Pc Martin Smith, who led the closure, said: “This is a perfect example of what can be achieved when communities and the police work together.

“With the assistance of local residents, and in particular Community Crime Fighters, we can take action on what matters to people the most.”

For more about the work of Community Crime Fighters, or how to become one, contact Doncaster Council on 01302 737146.