By Inspector Bill Pinnell, Safer Neighbourhoods Inspector

THE POLICE FORCE on the Isle of Wight is extremely concerned about reports of ‘legal high’ substances being used in our communities and their apparent consequences.

Police officers and staff have considerable experience in responding to people who abuse all types of substances. Some side effects of these so-called ‘legal highs’ can be severe. Long term drug addicts have told us that they have become psychotic, aggressive and hyperactive for extended periods of time due to their abuse of these ‘legal’ substances. Anyone who thinks they could be affected by the issues surrounding ‘legal highs’ is encouraged to seek professional advice and help.

We continue working within the Isle of Wight Community Safety Partnership to educate people that legal does not always mean safe, and to prosecute traders under product safety and unfair trading regulations if and where there is evidence of criminal offences.

School and youth service programmes in support of informed and responsible advice from parents and guardians will help protect young people who are exposed to these highly dangerous substances.

I would like to thank members of the public, the media and partner agencies who have provided information and expressed concerns about the alleged supply and use of ‘legal highs’.

We will continue acting on your information and suspicions to protect the community. Two men were arrested when police carried out operations at two shops on the island last week. Both suspects were questioned and later bailed until October pending further enquiries. Substances can be seized by police for expert analysis to determine whether any of their contents are illegal or harmful. Because legal highs are not manufactured to a standard that is tested, the ingredients can pose unpredictable risks to someone’s health and behaviour.

Each area of the Isle of Wight has its own local dedicated Safer Neighbourhoods team. They are dedicated to providing an excellent service and an active presence in every neighbourhood to catch criminals and protect communities. Go to www.hampshire.police.uk and type in your postcode.

Please contact us by phoning 101 or 0845 045 45 45. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. In a life-threatening emergency, dial 999,