Please look after yourself as you enjoy the festive season
In Inmanyrespectsthishasbeena many respects this has been a challenging year for police officers working in Renfrewshire.
Perhaps of most concern, we have seen far too many drugs deaths across Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, each one of which is a tragedy for the individual involved, their families and the wider community.
Many of these deaths arise from the consumption of drugs that have been manufactured and supplied illegally.
Clearly, the police have an important role to play in preventing unscrupulous dealers exploiting vulnerable members of society and over the last 12 months we have havecharged180individualswith charged 180 individuals with possessing drugs with intent to supply and have seized drugs with a‘street’value running to millions of pounds.
This will continue to be a priority in 2020. However, over my time in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde I have been made increasingly aware through discussions with partners that we must also gain a better understanding of why people develop addiction issues in the first place and how best to support anyone who is experiencing difficulties.
Unfortunately the festive season often sees a rise in crimes attributable in part to the unwise consumption of alcohol.
Wedowantyoutoenjoyyourselves We do want you to enjoy yourselves over the festive season and see a vibrant night-time economy in Renfrewshire, but please drink in moderation and look after yourselves and your friends when you are out about.
On a lighter note, I would like to thank everyone in Renfrewshire for supporting your local police officers and staff over the past year.
The vast majority of dealings we have had with the public have been very positive and the friendliness and empathy shown to my officers on so many occasions has made their job very rewarding.
Thisisverymuchappreciatedandwe This is very much appreciated and we will do our best to retain your confidence and support next year.
Finally, on behalf of myself and my management team I would like to thank all police officers and support staff working in Renfrewshire for their dedication and sheer hard work over 2019.
You should be very proud of how you have gone about your duties and thoroughly deserve a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year.