Law Weblog

From 1 December police have been allowed to test for drugs on arrest

Sunday 4 December 2005 at 10:42 pm | In News | Post Comment

The scheme has been initially targeted in areas with the highest drug-linked crime rates such as Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire.
The powers are likely to be expanded into other areas from 31 March 2006.

Key points of the powers:

• offenders will be tested for heroin, crack and cocaine on arrest for acquisitive crimes, such as robbery, burglary
• offenders who refuse the test could face a penalty fine of up to £2500 and/or three months in prison
• courts will be able to deny bail unless the offender agrees to a drug assessment
•  anyone who tests positive will be assessed by drugs workers and allocated a programme of support or treatment