Kent Police’s Crackdown Team Honoured for Battling Drugs and Gangs
Kent Police’s County Lines and Gangs Team has scooped a prestigious award for their relentless fight against crack cocaine and heroin dealers flooding local communities. The team was celebrated at the annual High Sheriff Awards on 17 March at Rochester’s Corn Exchange.
Top Cop Praises Team’s Grit on the Ground
John Weir JP, the High Sheriff of Kent, heaped praise on the officers, saying:
“I am making a special award to Kent Police’s County Lines and Gangs Team in recognition of their efforts not only to combat the flow of class A drugs into Kent but also to protect the young and vulnerable caught up in these gangs. Having spent time with them, I’m certain this award is well deserved.”
The High Sheriff Awards, managed by the Kent Community Foundation, shine a light on those dedicating time and energy to help the county’s most vulnerable.
Chief Constable: ‘Making a Real Difference’
Kent Police Chief Constable Alan Pughsley attended the ceremony alongside senior officers and Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott. He said:
“Dismantling the criminal networks flooding Kent with class A drugs is a top priority. I’m proud of the County Lines and Gangs Team for their fantastic work. They are transforming lives daily and making it clear to offenders that drugs and crime will not be tolerated here.”
Officers Fight Crime and Support the Vulnerable
Detective Superintendent Shaun White, leading the team, added:
“Arrests, seizures, and putting offenders behind bars is our daily business, but we also focus heavily on protecting vulnerable young people exploited by drug gangs. We’re honoured to receive this special award from the High Sheriff of Kent – it recognises our ongoing fight to wipe out class A drugs from our communities.”
Kent’s County Lines and Gangs Team are sending a loud-and-clear message: drugs and criminals have no place on our streets.