The Codiac Regional RCMP is set to launch a crackdown on open-air drug use in the coming two months. Superintendent Benoit Jolette, the head of Codiac RCMP, announced on Monday that the initiative, commencing this week, will involve both uniformed and plainclothes officers patrolling areas like downtown Moncton, which falls under Codiac’s jurisdiction along with Dieppe and Riverview.

Jolette clarified to reporters that the focus is not to aggressively target individuals for drug addiction but rather to tackle the illicit consumption of drugs in public spaces and gather intelligence on drug supply networks. While Codiac sporadically addresses open-air drug use, competing high-priority incidents often divert attention. Jolette emphasized that the upcoming two-month blitz will entail increased efforts, subject to resource availability based on operational demands.

The response to individuals caught engaging in public drug use will be influenced by several factors, including the quantity of drugs in possession, existing warrants, and prior history of public drug use. Moncton Mayor Shawn Crossman expressed satisfaction with the plan, noting his long-standing concerns regarding public drug use and the positive response from the RCMP to address these issues.

Council members, like Coun. Kate Doyle, highlighted the importance of data collection during the blitz to prevent individuals from simply relocating to new areas without receiving necessary treatment or support services. The blitz is expected to conclude in October, coinciding with budget discussions among the councils funding Codiac RCMP.

Jolette hinted at the potential use of data gathered during the blitz in future budget deliberations, questioning the allocation of resources based on the actual policing needs on the ground. In the previous year, additional officer requests were turned down due to the lack of data provided to support the need for more officers. The Codiac Regional Policing Authority, responsible for overseeing Codiac RCMP and formulating its budget, has yet to approve the 2027 spending plan, which will then be subject to municipal approval.

Following a review by a consulting firm, the board had initially proposed a three-year plan to add 46 officers, including 14 in 2027. Apart from the ongoing blitz, Codiac has undertaken other pilot projects this year, such as the successful downtown patrol initiative and the “Car 67” program in collaboration with health networks to address mental health calls.

Mayor Crossman stressed the community’s long-standing demand for enhanced measures to combat crime and drug-related issues, indicating a strong public desire for proactive law enforcement efforts.