Two arrests as Newport crack house is boarded up (From South Wales Argus)

Two arrests as Newport crack house is boarded up

10:20am Thursday 7th March 2013 in Gwent news

A CRACK house in Newport has been shut down by police and two people arrested on suspicion of money laundering and supplying Class A drugs.

The closure happened two months after a police raid in which cocaine, heroin and cash were seized.

Parents refused to let their children play near the house in Harrow Road, Maindee, and some residents would avoid the street altogether, according to Gwent Police.

Officers raided the house in January but had to wait for a crack house closure order from Caerphilly Magistrates’ Court, which was granted on Monday.

During the raid two people were arrested, one on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, and another on suspicion of money laundering.

The house is now boarded up after PC Leanne Pole, of Maindee Neighbourhood Policing Team, told Caerphilly magistrates that people were “constantly hanging around outside the house looking to purchase illegal drugs”.

She said the community feared for its safety as people shouted abuse at residents.

Steel shutters are barring the property for a minimum of three months. Anyone who attempts to enter can be arrested.

Sergeant Scott Askew, of Maindee Neighbourhood Policing Team, said he was delighted the order has been granted.

“Residents in Newport have the absolute right to live in a peaceful environment where they don’t fear for their safety,” he said.

“We will not tolerate antisocial behaviour of any kind and I would urge any other members of the community whose lives are affected by drug dealing to let us know so that we can take action.”

Anyone who suspects a premises is being used to supply illegal drugs can contact Gwent Police on 101 or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Visit www.owl.co.uk/gwent to join 20,000 residents in Gwent using the online Neighbourhood Watch.