YOUNG Islanders are being warned they face a ‘hefty’ prison sentence and a criminal conviction which could jeopardise future employment prospects if they get caught in possession of drugs.
Mark Capern, associate director of Young People’s Services, issued the message following a JEP investigation which found that teenagers were using a secret network of messaging apps and social-media posts to order drugs, including cocaine and ecstasy.
The illegal substances are often sent through the post, with Customs now seizing an average of £5,000-worth of drugs at Jersey Post’s headquarters each week.
In a statement, Mr Capern said: ‘I would urge any people who have any concerns about drugs to speak with a trusted adult.
‘This might be a parent, carer, family member, teacher or youth worker. Young people need to be aware of the negative impact drugs can have on your life, whether it’s your health and well-being or receiving a criminal conviction with potentially a hefty prison sentence.
‘With any illegal drug you don’t know the content or strength of these substances and they are dangerous to your health, but also the risk of being arrested and charged with the importation of a controlled substance that will have an impact on future employment opportunities.’
Assistant Children’s and Education Minister Richard Vibert said school children were taught about the danger of drugs in schools.
He added: ‘The personal, social, health and economic education curriculum sets a statutory requirement for pupils in Key Stage 3 and 4 (aged 1 –16) to learn about how to make informed choices about health and wellbeing matters, including the use of substances such as drugs.
‘The department is currently refreshing the current PSHE curriculum following feedback from the Jersey Youth Parliament to ensure schools have access to guidance that is up to date and relevant to our Island context.’
