A notorious drug den, behind a spate of anti-social behaviour in a calm residential area over the past year, has finally been closed down after a police crackdown.
Eddie Kemp, a newly-appointed dedicated ward officer, said: “The issue is now resolved.
“We had received three warrants to search the property over the course of three months. On 1 December, we moved the tenants out of the flat and sealed it – no one can access now.”
The removed tenant, who cannot be named, received help from the police and the council and has not been charged with an offence.
PC Kemp said: “When it comes to drug abuse, some people are victims rather than criminals. Our priority is to provide timely help to the members of community who suffer from drug addiction rather than apply disciplinary methods.
“Local residents all know each other and we need to make sure they cohabit peacefully.”
Ranked 16 out of 16 for the number of offences per 1,000 population, Hillrise is one of the safest wards in Islington. Predominantly residential, the area is mostly affected by alcohol and drug abuse problems today.
Although it has a long history of gang wars, most of the Busy Block gang members are now arrested and convicted of serious offences. Local police officers played a vital role in removing them.
“We are happy to see Hillrise as a much nicer place as a result,” PO Kemp said. “We currently work closely with residents and local organisations to help them tackle the patterns of anti-social behaviour.”
