New powers to allow police to drug test people arrested for certain trigger offences will come into force for the first time tomorrow (1 December), the Home Office announced today.
The new measures are part of the Drugs Act 2005, and will be used initially in those police areas with the highest rates of drug-linked crime.
Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire police will be the first to have test on arrest and compulsory drugs assessment. These will be expanded further on 31 March 2006.
For the first time drug-using offenders will be tested for heroin, crack and cocaine on arrest for acquisitive crime offences (eg, street robbery, burglary). Those who test positive will then be required to attend a compulsory drug assessment by specialist drugs workers to determine the extent of their drug problem and help them into treatment and other support, even if they are not charged.
Those who fail to provide a sample or comply with a required assessment face a fine of up to 2,500 and/or up to three months in prison.
New restriction on bail provisions will also apply to those subsequently charged. Courts will be able to deny bail unless the offender agrees to a drug assessment - if one hasn't already taken place - plus follow up treatment or support. Restriction on bail will be rolled out to the whole of England from 31 March which means that anyone who tests positive will be eligible.
The new powers, a key part of the Government's drug strategy, were announced on the day of a national drugs conference in London at which Home Secretary, Charles Clarke was making the keynote speech.
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Source: www.drugs.gov.uk
Posted: 30th November 2005
