WEST Yorkshire Police have won two accolades for their work in tackling the drugs menace.
Both were presented at this year's Association of Chief Police Officers' drugs conference.
Three members of the force and members of the Crime Reduction Initiative received recognition following their innovative approach to dealing with street vice and volume crime issues.
Det Insp Richard James from the Drug Interventions Programme, and Pcs Andrew Baylis and Ruby Price, from the Neighbourhood Policing Team, at the City and Holbeck division in Leeds, were among those commended for linking DIP and street enforcement activity.
Det Insp Jonathan Hoyle, from the Drugs and Organised Crime Unit, was praised for his outstanding enthusiasm, energy and knowledge of drug markets and his contribution in high conviction rates surrounding drug offences.
Det Insp Hoyle has been the senior investigating officer for previous Operation Brava operations, which have seen over 300 people arrested and charged with drug trafficking offences.
Acting Deputy Chief Constable John Sampson said: "All our winners have played a significant role in shaping the way the force tackles the drug market, through enforcement, treatment and education.
"We recognise that working towards diminishing the threat of drugs is not just about arresting suppliers.
"It is also about sustainable reductions through a combined approach.
"These awards are fully deserved and on behalf of the force I offer my congratulations.
"The message now is that our work doesn't stop here."
