West End gangs a factor in meth use

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This article was published 16/02/2018 (2921 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

An uptick in meth use and distribution has Winnipeg police concerned about what’s on the horizon.

At a forum held at Gordon Bell High School on Feb. 12, inspector Max Waddell stated that as meth use, and associated violent and criminal activity, continue to prevail, the WPS’ resources are being “challenged.”

“There are many demands placed upon us for different needs in the community,” Waddell said. “Meth has put a new weight and load on our society not only from a call perspective, but with the violence, irrational behaviour and unpredictability we’re not faced with, so it’s going to be a challenge, and I expect this summer is going to be a very challenging summer.”

Manny Di Gioia presented on the topic of meth to a room full of local residents and community leaders, providing information on the cost, production, use and outcomes of methamphetamine. He said that when meth first became available in Winnipeg, it was more expensive than cocaine and therefore wasn’t as appealing.

“Police forces across the country have combatted cocaine trafficking so that’s driven the price of cocaine up, and people have been giving out samples of meth and got people addicted and got a client base,” Di Gioia said. “Its high is longer and better than cocaine.”

The affordable price and long-lasting high — as well as one that’s 3.5 times more potent — has made meth a popular option for those taking illicit drugs. However the pronounced spike in use over the past two years may be due to the fentanyl crisis, as well.

“Fentanyl has really scared people,” Waddell said.

Fentanyl and carfentanil are fine powders and are sometimes mixed with other opioids. They aren’t easily laced into meth, which looks like shards of glass or ice.

Det. Steve Mitchell made the connection between drug trafficking and gang activity, which is particularly heavy in the West End and inner city.

“This neighbourhood is a very interesting microcosm for street gangs,” Mitchell said. “I always liken street gangs to bacteria, whatever city you’re in, or neighbourhood, they’re always growing and changing shape.”

Mitchell explained that while identity is toted as the purpose of gangs, the real motive is making money, most of which is done through trafficking drugs. He added that Gordon Bell sits between the territories of two well-established gangs: the B Side gang in West Broadway and the Mad Cowz in the West End.

“This school is very proactive, and they’ve taken the time to have all their teachers gang-trained,” Mitchell said.

He offered the audience pointers on how to spot gang activity and graffiti and advised to report gang signs to authorities so they can be removed as soon as possible.