Police and Council Crack Down on Deadly Cocaethylene Risk in Newark
Newark’s police and council teamed up on Saturday 4 March to warn clubbers and pub-goers about the deadly dangers of cocaethylene – a toxic mix created when cocaine and alcohol combine.
Officers Hit the Nightlife Hotspots
Armed with leaflets and facts, officers from Newark and Sherwood Neighbourhood Policing joined the district council’s public protection team to patrol Newark’s bars, clubs, and pubs. Their mission: educate revellers about the hidden risks of mixing booze and coke.
Since last year, this partnership – boosted by Safer Streets funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office – has been cracking down on drug crime and spreading life-saving info across the community.
Cocaethylene: The Silent Killer
Cocaethylene forms when alcohol and cocaine enter the body together, triggering a cocktail of dangerous effects:
- Spike in violent and reckless behaviour
- Greater risk of seizures, heart attacks, strokes, and liver damage
- Sudden death – 20 times more likely than using cocaine alone
- Lowered sexual performance
“Death is off the charts when these two are mixed,” warned Inspector Matthew Ward, District Commander for Newark and Sherwood. “It’s not just about enforcement. Educating the public is key to stopping crimes before they happen.”
Community Responds – Awareness on the Rise
At previous events, officers handed out over 250 leaflets and found 90% of participants knew little about cocaethylene’s extra dangers. This time, they also handed out posters and teamed up with outreach workers to reach as many people as possible.
“We see the fallout from drug use daily, from violent incidents to property damage,” said Inspector Ward. “Working with venues and partners helps us protect both individuals and our wider community.”
Safer Streets Scheme Tackles Crime and Protects Women
The awareness nights are part of the broader Safer Streets initiative, aimed at reducing neighbourhood crime, anti-social behaviour, and violence against women and girls. Recent upgrades include new security gates at St Mark’s Place and door safety measures around Queen’s Court and Lover’s Lane.
Councillor Roger Jackson added: “Cocaethylene isn’t just dangerous for users; it puts everyone at risk. These actions help residents feel safer, and education is the best weapon.”
Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry said: “Events like this show our commitment to public safety. Raising awareness helps cut violence and keeps our towns safe for everyone.”
