The new executive director of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Northeastern Ontario says plans for Sudbury police to crack down on open drug use and panhandling next month won’t make things better.

"Criminalizing people for their addictions is not helpful,” said Amy Collins.

“It's more counterproductive. Our correctional facilities are already overcrowded and overburdened, as well as our court system and justice system. So by arresting them, it's not going to change anything."

Sudbury, Ont., businesses near Energy Court speak out against city plan for expanded social service hub

Sudbury police to arrest people openly using drugs ‘if and when needed’

At a recent Sudbury police services board meeting, Chief Sara Cunningham confirmed officers will use their own discretion and could arrest pe

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