Narcotics and Vice Division
Narcotics / Vice |
Drug Tip Hotline
812-372-DRUG
812-372-3784
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The Columbus Police Department Narcotics Unit has been in existence for over 30 years. The unit was developed and implemented in the 1970's and has been continually staffed ever since. It is one of the few full-time narcotics units in the southern-half of Indiana. In the 1970's and 80's the unit focused it's efforts on the illegal use and distribution of marijuana and powder cocaine. In the early 90's, the focus turned to crack, or rock, cocaine, as its use became more prevalent. For the last few years, our main focus has methamphetamine. The use and distribution of meth has become so widespread because it is relatively easy to produce in clandestine labs and the drug's highly addictive nature. In the past, dealers and users had to rely on drugs coming from the West Coast and/or Mexico, but not with meth. Currently, the majority of methamphetamine we encounter is produced locally in clandestine labs.
Becoming a member the Narcotics Unit is a highly sought after and coveted position within the Department. However, there can be drawbacks to the position that include, long hours, time away from family, and a large and constant caseload. The unit is typically staffed with two or three officers at a time. The amount of cases generated by the unit could warrant the appointment of five or six full time undercover officers. Officers within the unit receive specialized training in undercover operations, drug identification, drug trends, prescription drugs, controlled substances, use of confidential informants, and search and seizure laws. Officers within the unit work on a constant basis with the Prosecutors Office and agencies such as the State Police, DEA, FBI, ATF and numerous local agencies to ensure that drug dealers are arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent possible. For years the Columbus Police Department has assisted smaller agencies in their efforts to curb the drug trade in surrounding communities. This close working relationship has resulted in the arrests of several large-scale drug dealers. Investigations initiated by the Columbus Police Department Narcotics Unit have extended as far away as the Texas/ Mexican border and to California.
Narcotics officers also provide a community service by giving talks and presentations about drugs to businesses, civic organizations, citizen groups and schools. Strong community involvement has proven to be an important part of curbing the flow of illegal drugs into our community.
We strongly encourage citizens with questions or concerns about drug use in their neighborhoods, businesses, or schools to contact us on our drug tip hotline, 372-DRUG, (3784). You can remain anonymous with your information or questions.
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