Media release:

29th November 2008

Ticking time bombs in Opotiki

Following the violent death of a frail, elderly man in Opotiki this week, the Police aren't speculating as to who's responsible. But the locals are.

People living in the area say there are several tinny houses nearby and alcohol, marijuana and methamphetamine are all problems with local youth.

Christine Davey, Sensible Sentencing Spokesperson on Drug Issues, would like to know if the local Police knew of the existence of the tinny houses, and if they are aware who the youths are who are using illicit drugs.

If they did, and they are, then it is Ms Davey's opinion that the Police are culpable for any crime committed by these “ticking time bombs”, and the sooner this new Government insists the Police get these people off the streets into treatment, the safer our communities will be.

Tinny houses are illegal. Using marijuana and P is illegal. Opotiki is hardly Central New York – what's the Police's excuse for not cleaning up their town? Too busy issuing speeding and parking tickets?

ends

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