Backdated from previous BA website
From 1st April drug testing for heroin and cocaine has been mandatory on arrest (not on charge as previously) for a wide range of trigger offences. It is an offence to refuse to take the test. Those who test positive are required to attend a drugs assessment with failure to do an offence. The test results cannot be used in evidence; however they may be used to A?informA? sentence if a detainee is charged and found guilty. Further, failure to follow recommended treatment after assessment can affect bail. Failure to attend the assessment interview will lead to an arrest warrant.
The BA welcomes these new arrangements as they will identify problematic behaviour as being drug related and so offer the opportinity for the offenser to receive treatment, and may help to give early warning of a problematic drug user in the future.
Bloomsbury Association 