Police use criminal funds to educate students

The assemblies took place at Sir John Hunt Community Sports College

Police used profits seized from criminals to fund educational performances at a Plymouth school.

Devon & Cornwall Police secured £1,200 from the Proceeds of Crime Fund (POCA) to produce three assemblies at Sir John Hunt Community Sports College.

The work addressed the issues of child criminal exploitation and drug trafficking.

Insp Jon Manning said it was an "important message to share far and wide".

'Tackle drugs'

He said: "We know young people who are of secondary school age can be targeted by criminals appearing to be a ‘friend’, asking them to sell drugs or commit crime in return for money or gifts.

“Following these assemblies, nearly 800 students aged 11 to 18 have seen the performance and will know more about county lines and what support is available if they need it.”

County lines is the name given to drug dealing where organised criminal groups use phone lines to move and supply drugs, usually from cities into smaller towns and rural areas.

The initiative by Plymouth North Neighbourhood Police Team and Narrative Alchemy was followed by 15-minute question and answer sessions.

Insp Manning added: “Education is just one part of our approach to tackle drugs and exploitation.

“However, we can’t do it alone, we need the support of our communities.

"Please, if you see something that doesn’t look right or if you have any information that could support our investigations, come forward."