Drugs money buys new goal

West Hill Wasps gets confiscated cash

A junior soccer team has drug dealers to thank for new equipment.

Under the Proceeds Of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) police can seize assets from convicts in certain cases and the funds can go to community groups.

 Now West Hill Wasps Junior Football Team has a new goal.

Around 150 children aged six to 18 play at the club, sporting a yellow and black kit, and needed £1,717 to buy a new goal. The youngsters are delighted.  

Coach Allen Morgan said: “We applied for the funds to help us get better team equipment and we are so grateful it has been approved, this is great news for the club. It’s good that confiscated drug dealer’s money is now being put back into the community and that they won't see the benefit of it.”

Neighbourhood Police Teams across Devon and Cornwall are encouraged to engage with their local community groups and find possible organisations who may benefit from a financial boost. In some instances the money may be used to help those who may be vulnerable or may wish to take part in activities to prevent crime or help divert someone else from getting into trouble and making the wrong life choices.         

Superintendent Antony Hart, Devon & Cornwall Policing Commander for Exeter, East & Mid Devon, added: “The aim of the grant making is to help build thriving communities. We support core costs, new or continuing projects and one-off initiatives. I am very pleased that West Hill Wasps have received the funds and I wish the team success in the future.”