Eight Arrested in Guelph Downtown Drug Enforcement Patrol

Eight people were arrested Wednesday during a targeted Guelph Police Service patrol initiative focused on addressing public illicit drug use downtown.

Police said illegal substances were seized and those arrested were offered information about available support services before being released.

According to a Guelph Police news release, two men and one woman were charged with possessing controlled substances after officers allegedly saw them smoking from pipes in public areas where children and vulnerable community members were present. They were released with future court dates.

The initiative is part of a downtown patrol program launched in 2023 to address public safety concerns, including open drug use and related criminal activity. Police said they continue to use a health-focused approach while working to keep downtown safe and welcoming for the community.