Camden police get tough on illegal drug buyers and prostitution

In order to ensure a safe summer, the Camden Police Department has launched Operation “Crack Down,” an array of operations intended to cut down drug distribution and prostitution schemes.

The operation has led to 110 arrests since last week.

“From barbecues to block parties to playing in the park, we want Camden residents to enjoy spending time outdoors with their family and friends during the summer months,” Mayor Dana L. Redd said in a press release. 

The operation targets illegal drug buyers who fuel the drug trade in Camden. More than 60 of these buyers have been arrested so far, and about half of them are based in the suburbs.

These drugs operations require police to pose as drug dealers so that drug buyers will reveal themselves. Police also went undercover soliciting prostitutes, leading to 37 arrests.

Penalties under Operation Crack Down include fines of up to $1,000, six months in jail and a six-month loss of license.