More Doherty-style drug tests on way

Published on Friday 14 March 2008 09:22

PETTY criminals in the Lothians are to be hit with tough anti-drugs orders similar to those used against rock star Pete Doherty.

A two-year, 600,000 trial will see Drug Treatment and Testing Orders (DTTOs) extended to around 70 persistent, lower-level offenders, such as shoplifters.

Currently, DTTOs are only available to sheriffs for use against higher-level offenders, such as burglars. Orders can last from six months to two years, and a breach of the order can result in a prison sentence. In England, judges and magistrates have been criticised for failing to jail drug users, such as Doherty, for repeated offending.

However, Edinburgh's drugs tsar, Tom Wood, believes DTTOs are proving to be a powerful deterrent in Scotland.

Mr Wood, chair of Action on Alcohol and Drug Edinburgh, said: "We are not talking about a huge number of people, but people who are hugely active and whose offending causes a disproportionate amount of problems for themselves and others. So far it's working really well because there are a range of services, such as housing, into which these people can be routed. We are trying to address their issues and stop their drug taking, which is linked to their offending. So far it has proved worthy of more investment."

DTTOs are an alternative to prison for criminals who offend to fund their addiction. The tests are random and can take place at any time. A positive test does not necessarily result in a breach, but subjects are expected to reduce their drug use.

A single order costs about 10,000, which pays for a range of professionals to help the person get off and stay off drugs, and change aspects of their lives which make them vulnerable to using again.

If the pilot proves successful, the scheme will then be rolled out nationwide.