A local security firm says it has collected various types of drug paraphernalia, such as needles and burnt foil, during its first month operating the Community Safety Patrol Program in Sarnia.
The free initiative, spearheaded by Hughes Intelligence, launched on July 2.
During the month of July, the program recorded 331 patrols and members safely removed 127 pieces of drug paraphernalia from public spaces.
"Patrol officers collected burnt foil, needles, broken pipes, rubber bands, and other hazardous debris from parks, parking lots, and high-traffic public areas," read a media release from Hughes Intelligence.
Although 26 locations were monitored regularly throughout the month of July, Hughes Intelligence said the most impacted areas were Rainbow Park, Tecumseh Park, the Walmart plaza, and the downtown core.
The company said patrol officers also reported suspicious behavior to Sarnia police.
The Community Safety Patrol Program will operate daily from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. until September 2.