November 7, 2007, Canton, MI - This morning Canton Police Department conducted a random drug sweep at the three high schools located in Canton.  School resource officers were joined by 21 canine officers and their drug-identifying dogs to sweep parking lots located at the high school campus.

The Canton Police Department works together with Growth Works Youth Assistance and the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools in reducing the presence of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs at our high schools.  This sweep was conducted as a proactive step to deter teen use of alcohol and other drugs. 

Today’s efforts resulted in 47 cars being searched based on positive responses from the canine dogs.  Of those, 4 students were ticketed, one for Possession of a Controlled Substance and three for Possession of Alcohol.  These misdemeanor charges are punishable by a fine and/or court ordered substance abuse treatment, community service and random drug testing.

For several years, Canton Police Department has conducted decoy operations at local businesses throughout Canton in an effort to curb the availability of tobacco and alcohol to underage youth.  The department plans to continue the decoy operations and drug sweeps on a random basis.  The objective of the program is to deter teen drug use while bringing awareness of the consequences of drug and alcohol possession.  Canton Police Deputy Chief Laura Golles states, “The results of today’s drug sweep are encouraging in the effort to reduce the presence of drugs at our high schools.  The zero tolerance stance taken by the school district, as well as our department, will continue to be the standard.” 

Canton Police Department continues to encourage parents to be aware of their teen’s activities, friends and whereabouts. 
For further information contact the Canton Police Department Patrol Division at 734/394-5401.

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