With ongoing concern about a Niagara Regional Police crackdown on people using illegal drugs in parks and other public places, police board members are asking for impact reports on enforcement efforts.

During Thursday’s board meeting, member Laura Ip said there was “an immediate ripple-effect among users” after police officers in September began taking a zero-tolerance approach to use of illegal drugs in public spaces in September.

It is part of a strategy to enhance public safety, while also helping ensure drug users are referred to services where they can get assistance they need to overcome their addictions.

But Ip said staff and volunteers of agencies that provide those service have told her “there’s quite a bit of variance in how it’s being enforced among officers.”

While some off

See Full Page