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Cops in Steeltown are touting online reporting as a “new way” for community members to help them crack down on criminal activity such as drug dealing.

Hamilton Police say a man was arrested for alleged drug trafficking and an assortment of suspected drugs were seized thanks to information received through reports filed online by citizens.

CORE officers – members of an initiative aimed at addressing safety concerns, public disorder and open drug use in downtown Hamilton – were patrolling the area of 94 York Blvd., near Bay St. N., around 1:30 p.m. on Sunday “in response to numerous community complaints about open drug use and trespassing,” police said in a statement released Wednesday.

“As officers approached, they observed a man place a drug pipe, scale and bag on a sharps container (a receptacle used to safely dispose of used needles and other sharp instruments),” police said.

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Suspected illicit drugs seized in search

Officers subsequently conducted a search and allegedly located approximately 28 grams of suspected fentanyl, 26 pills believed to contain fentanyl, a small quantity of suspected crystal methamphetamine, 131 suspected Dilaudid pills, five cellphones, scales, packaging materials and cash.

Following the search, the man was arrested and charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The name of the accused was not released.

“Community reports provide important information about recurring drug activity and neighbourhood concerns,” police said, explaining officers “use this information, alongside other operational data, to identify emerging patterns, inform proactive patrols and support investigations.”

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110 reported occurrences since tool’s launch

Police said residents and businesses can support this work through the service’s new online drug activity reporting tool.

“Since launching in September, there have been 110 reported occurrences using the online platform,” police said.

“The tool allows people to report suspected drug use or dealing they have observed when an immediate police response is not required,” police explained. “Information is reviewed to identify patterns, guide patrols and support investigations.”

Police cautioned that online reports “do not result in an immediate police response.”

For emergencies or incidents in progress, citizens are reminded to call 911. And for non-emergency situations requiring a more immediate response, call 905-546-4925.

cdoucette@postmedia.com

@sundoucette