DUBBO is being targeted in a new campaign that calls on the community to “join the fight” against the drug crystal methamphetamine, better known as ice.
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The city is one of seven communities being targeted in the state-wide campaign, due to the high prevalence of ice-related crime.
Ice use in Dubbo has risen dramatically in recent years with arrest rates for amphetamine (including methamphetamine) related offences also increasing.
In 2014, 15 people were arrested for dealing or trafficking amphetamines in Dubbo, compared to only two people in 2013.
The number of arrests made for amphetamine use or possession almost doubled in the same period, rising from 22 recorded cases in 2013 to 37 recorded cases in 2014.
Already in 2015, a teenage girl, who claimed to be under the influence of ice, has been charged with stabbing a taxi driver in Dubbo.
Another man still before the courts, charged with “ongoing” drug supply offences, is alleged to have made more than 670 drug deals in 30 days.
Since February, 2015, police have had continued dealings with a 29-year-old man who was using ice, with his behaviour reportedly becoming more erratic the more he used the drug.
While just last month police located what is believed to be a clandestine ice lab in a residence in Dubbo.
The police statewide advertising campaign was unveiled on Wednesday by Police Minister and Dubbo MP, Troy Grant, with NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione and NSW Crime Stoppers CEO Peter Price.
In the campaign, print and online advertisements urge members of the community to help police shutdown ice manufacturing and dealing operations by using the Crime Stoppers hotline to alert authorities to suspicious behaviour. Reports can be made anonymously.
Other areas being targeted are Newcastle, Albury-Wodonga, Bellingen, Orange, Goulburn and Moree.
Orana Local Area Commander Superintendent David Simmons said the local police can not tackle the epidemic on their own.
“Officers across the entirety of the NSW Police Force are working together to combat the ice scourge,” Supt David Simmons said.
“Regional and rural commands are working closely with colleagues in the drug squad, as well as local community groups, to tackle the use and supply of ice in country towns.”