Crackdown on Drug-Related Crime in Oakham Rutland Sees a number of Section 8 Warnings Issued this week By Leicestershire Police and Rutland County Council

Crackdown on Drug-Related Crime in Oakham Sees Section 8 Warnings Issued

Leicestershire Police, in partnership with Rutland County Council, has intensified its efforts to combat drug-related offenses in Oakham this week.  A number of Section 8 Misuse of Drugs Act Warnings have been served to residents suspected of allowing their premises to be used for drug-related activities.

This proactive operation, conducted by Rutland beat officers alongside the Rutland Community Safety Bureau, Adult Social Care, and Housing Associations, targeted multiple addresses in the Oakham area.  The action comes in response to growing concerns about "cuckooing," a practice where drug dealers take over the homes of vulnerable individuals to use as a base for their operations.

"A current police priority is drug-related offences in Oakham," stated a recent police update. "Today the Rutland beat officers have conducted a joint operation… attending several addresses in the Oakham area and issuing Section 8 Misuse of Drugs Act notices to the occupants."

The Section 8 warning notices serve as a stark reminder to residents that allowing their property to be used for drug production, supply, or consumption is a serious offense.  The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 makes it an offense for any occupier or manager of premises to knowingly permit such activities.  Specifically, this includes:

Producing or attempting to produce controlled drugs.

Supplying or attempting to supply controlled drugs.

Offering to supply controlled drugs.

Preparing opium for smoking.

Smoking cannabis, cannabis resin, or prepared opium.

Residents served with these warnings face potential prosecution if they continue to allow drug-related activities on their property.  Furthermore, the police have indicated they will inform housing providers, who may then take tenancy enforcement action, potentially leading to eviction.

The crackdown also aims to protect vulnerable individuals who are often targeted in cuckooing operations.  Partnership agencies are working to provide support and safeguard these individuals from exploitation.

Leicestershire Police and Rutland County Council are sending a clear message that they are committed to tackling the supply and dealing of drugs, particularly cocaine, in Rutland.  They are urging residents to report any suspicious activity and are emphasising their commitment to protecting vulnerable members of the community.  The police encourage anyone with information regarding drug-related offenses to come forward and assist in their ongoing efforts to make Oakham a safer place.