Mounted patrols help stem flow of drugs into prison
Humberside Polices mounted section is working with a local prison to prevent drugs and mobile phones being thrown over prison walls for inmates to use.
Humberside Polices mounted section is working with a local prison to prevent drugs and mobile phones being thrown over prison walls for inmates to use.
The police mounted unit joined forces with G4S-run Wolds Prison at the end of March and the initiative has led to a significant reduction in the number of prisoners using drugs.
The horses and officers patrol the perimeter of the prison to act as a deterrent to those who may attempt to provide inmates with contraband material. The idea behind the initiative came after it became clear that the prison was struggling to combat the actions of certain members of the public, who had been throwing items over the prison walls and into the compound, where prisoners would be waiting to collect them.
In a bid to support the prison, resolve the problem and increase security, the Humberside Police mounted unit deployed officers on numerous days at the end of March to patrol the area, stopping people in the vicinity who were acting suspiciously.
Although no arrests have yet been made, as a result of the patrols the volume of parcels thrown over the prison walls has decreased sharply according to the prison, and the percentage of prisoners testing positive for drugs has also declined significantly.
Chief Superintendent Colin Andrews, head of operations branch at Humberside Police, said: This is another example of the strong relationship that exists between G4S and Humberside Police. We will continue to work together and support the prison in this way whenever the need arises.
Sergeant Andy Wild, of the mounted unit added: This deployment has resulted in a significant reduction in the use of drugs in the prison and this can only be a positive thing.
Dave McDonnell, director at HMP Wolds, explained: This is a great example of partnership working and we are delighted that the deployment of the mounted unit has had a real impact in such a short period of time. Maintaining a safe and secure environment for those in our care is of paramount importance to us and we always welcome the opportunity to work closely with Humberside Police in this regard.