Two face drugs charges

TWO men from Stevenage have been charged in connection with supplying class A drugs following dawn raids.

They were among seven people who were arrested in Stevenage on Wednesday last week when warrants were executed at properties across the town under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

They were questioned on suspicion of being connected to the supply of drugs.

Ch Insp Julie Wheatley, who is based at Stevenage Police Station, said: "We want to remove drug dealers from our society and help to reduce the number of people becoming hooked on drugs and into a downward spiral of drugs and crime. There is not a large problem with drugs and drug dealing in Hertfordshire. However, where we know they are operating we will do something about it."

Sgt Jim Moatt from the Stevenage Neighbourhood Team added: "Those associated with drugs are in the minority and law-abiding citizens should be confident to go about their day-to-day lives unaffected.

"While last week's warrants were the result of covert work I would like to stress the important part members of the community can play in helping us target those suspected of being involved in drugs. Local residents are our eyes and ears on the streets and we need people to continue to provide us with information about any suspicious activity in their neighbourhood that they think may be drug-related."

Anyone with information about those involved in drugs should contact Herts police on 0845 3300 222. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

* Joshua Thomas, 22, of Ely Close has been charged with 13 offences involving class A drugs and Richard Wright, 35, of Stony Croft, has been charged with 11 offences of supplying class A drugs. They have been remanded in custody to appear at Stevenage Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Friday).