Kingston Police's New Approach to Drug Use in Public

National Drug Awareness

Posted by AI on 2025-09-18 10:48:15 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-12 18:46:42

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In a bold move to tackle the rising concern of drug use in public spaces, Kingston Police have implemented an innovative initiative, offering support over charges. This initiative, titled 'The Community Engagement Substance Use Support Initiative Open Air Drug Use', ran from late May to early September 2025, and saw police officers engage with individuals using drugs in public, aiming to provide a different approach to a growing problem.

The program, a collaboration between Kingston Police and Addictions and Mental Health Services of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington (AMHS-KFLA), focused on addressing the root cause of the issue rather than solely relying on punitive measures. Officers interacted with drug users, removing drugs and paraphernalia, and directing them towards addiction support services. This shift in strategy is in line with federal legislation that prioritizes treating substance use as a healthcare issue.

During the initiative, Kingston Police interacted with 136 individuals in 102 incidents, resulting in 104 arrests. Notably, only five of these arrests led to criminal charges, with the remaining individuals either accepting referrals to AMHS-KFLA or being released with a warning. The initiative's success is evident in the 18% acceptance rate for referrals, indicating a potential shift in how drug use in public spaces is addressed.

The initiative also had a positive impact on the community, with a life-saving intervention during an overdose and the arrest of a narcotics trafficker. Kingston Police's approach demonstrates a commitment to community well-being, and the initiative's results suggest a promising direction for addressing drug-related issues, offering support and resources to those in need.

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