Bracknell has been identified as a hotspot for a new dangerous drug known as 'Lean', according to Thames Valley Police.
Lean is made from two common over-the-counter medicines for pain and allergies. The mix produces a feeling of euphoria and motor impairment, causing users to literally lean over or have trouble standing. Because both main ingredients depress breathing, it slows heart rate and breathing and, in high doses or when mixed with other substances, can lead to respiratory failure, coma or death.
Speaking to a meeting of Bracknell Forest Council, Superintendent Helen Kenny said: "We're seeing an increase in the drug 'Lean' in Bracknell, maybe more than in other local authority areas."
"Lean is a mix of prescription medication which gives a real similar reaction to controlled drugs."
"Our harm reduction team works closely with partners and our proactive team have been leading some enforcement work in relation to that."
"We had a very recent stop and search where component parts worth up to £10,000 of Lean were recovered and that subject was charged and remanded."
Bracknell's Proactive Team, working with the area's Harm Reduction Unit (HRU), has been tracking an uptick in Lean use. The elevated use has prompted a joined-up enforcement and safeguarding response focused on young people at risk of exploitation and addiction.
Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter
