The police use criminal means to train students

Police used profits confiscated from criminals to fund educational performances at a Plymouth school.

Devon and Cornwall Police secured £1,200 from the Proceeds of Crime Fund (POCA) to hold three meetings at Sir John Hunt Community Sports College.

The work dealt with the topics of criminal exploitation of children and drug trafficking.

Inspector Jon Manning said it was an “important message that should be spread far and wide”.

“Fighting Drugs”

He said: “We know that young people of secondary school age can be targeted by criminals who pose as ‘friends’ and ask them to sell drugs or commit crimes in exchange for money or gifts.”

“Following these assemblies, almost 800 students aged 11 to 18 have seen the performance and will learn more about the district boundaries and what support is available if they need it.”

County lines is the name given to the drug trade in which organized criminal groups use telephone lines to transport and deliver drugs, usually from cities to smaller towns and rural areas.

Initiated by the Plymouth North Neighborhood Police Team and Narrative Alchemy, 15-minute question and answer sessions followed.

Insp Manning added: “Education is just one part of our approach to tackling drugs and exploitation.

“However, we cannot do it alone, we need the support of our communities.

“If you see anything that doesn’t look right or if you have any information that could assist our investigation, please come forward.”

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