Drug-Related Intimidation Programme

What is 'drug related debt' and intimidation?

People who use drugs and their family members can sometimes be intimidated by drug dealers to repay money owed for drugs. People could build up a debt over time by accessing drugs without paying or if they buy in large quantities. Forms of intimidation can include threats, physical violence, damage to the family home/property and sexual violence. Some people try to repay these debts through cash payment or cash payment and involvement in illegal activity.

We understand that the experience of intimidation can be very frightening and can pose a serious risk to the individuals involved and their loved ones.

The ‘Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme’ has been developed to respond to the needs of drug users, family members and individuals that are experiencing drug related intimidation.

There are specially trained Garda Inspectors in every Garda Division. They have expertise in understanding and supporting people who experience drug related intimidation. You do not have to make a formal report to receive this support. They can help you with reducing risk and increasing your safety and link to local supports. You can see them in a community setting or talk on the phone.

How can the Drug-Related Intimidation Reporting Programme help?

Through this programme you can work with both a Support Worker and a Drug Related Intimidation Nominated Inspector to help you find the best approach for your situation.

A Family Support Worker can:

Listen to your experience of intimidation.
Support you to think through your decision in relation to payment, non-payment and/or seeking help from the Garda.
Provide you with information on the Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme.
Help you to arrange a meeting with the nominated Inspector for your area.
Support workers cannot advise you on what to do. You are the person best placed to make any decisions relating to this issue but workers can guide you to help make an informed decision that suits your situation.

An Garda Síochána will offer the following:

Confidentiality
Provide practical safety information.
Provide advice in relation to particular threats or instances of intimidation.
Provide information on appropriate drug support services for the individual in the family who is accruing drug debts.
Outline how to make a formal complaint, what is involved, what happens after and possible outcomes.
Drug-Related Intimidation Reporting Programme

For more information about the Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme and to access the list of nominated Inspectors for your area please visit www.driveproject.ie