Pubdate: Mon, 24 Mar 2008 Source: Chatham Daily News, The (CN ON) Copyright: 2008 OSPREY Media Group Inc. Contact: http://www.chathamdailynews.ca Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1627 Author: Erica Bajer DRUG UNIT WAS BUSY IN 2007 The Chatham-Kent police drug unit seized more than $2.3 million in drugs last year. In the 64 raids officers in the drug and street crimes unit conducted, they seized $19,170 worth of powdered cocaine, $26,358 in crack cocaine and marijuana valued at more than $2.3 million. That's according to the annual report of the unit, released last week. Deputy Chief Dennis Poole said the unit also seized $34,000 in cash, $440,000 worth of stolen property and 11 guns. "This unit is very busy and the work demanded of its members requires them to be flexible and adaptive to irregular hours and unpredictable situations," he said. Poole said the unit was heavily involved in 2007 with the investigation and seizure of 51 Taylor Ave. in Chatham. The property was seized by the province under the Civil Remedies Act. The investigation and seizure process started in early 2006 and the building was taken over by the Attorney General's office in August 2007. The matter is currently before the courts, with a hearing scheduled for March 26. Poole said the unit received a $21,000 grant from the the province's civil remedies fund for specialized equipment. The unit was also involved in a challenge to Chatham-Kent's fortification bylaw, which the municipality won during a court hearing at the end of January. - --- MAP posted-by: Derek