I recently joined NZDDA starting up the Nelson Branch covering the ‘Top of the South Island’.

I bring with me a wealth of experience in dealing with alcohol and drug related issues, having been a Police officer for over 20 years. Having obtained  a Bachelor Of Science Honours degree in Chemistry, I joined the Metropolitan Police in London. Over the next 15 years I worked in inner city areas as both a frontline uniformed officer and within the CIB. I experienced first hand the devastating effects that drugs (Specifically Cannabis, Cocaine and Heroin) have on individuals, their families and loved ones.

In 2003 having qualified as an Inspector I left the UK to join the New Zealand police, where I started again, as a front line constable, working initially in South Auckland. In 2005 I joined the National Clandestine Laboratory Response Team, which is a team of police staff trained in the assessment, examination and dismantling of Drug Laboratories. During this time I attended in the region of 100 illicit laboratories involved in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine, which included one of the largest and one of the most contaminated ones to be located in New Zealand.

I believe that people have the right to choose to live their lives as they wish but that their actions should not adversely affect others. This is particularly true in the working environment where one person’s actions could cause significant financial damage and loss of life. I am able to assist with drug and alcohol policy development and implementation which will ultimately result in increased productivity, reduced workplace accidents and decreased absenteeism.

Despite having left the police two years ago having qualified to the rank of Senior Sergeant I remain one of the most experienced police officers in dealing with illicit drug labs within properties. I have seen the financial burden and stigma that innocent property owners have undergone with the discovery of such labs including entries on their LIM reports. I am able to offer a first rate and strictly confidential service to test and deal with possible property contamination issues. This includes pre-purchase testing, allaying fears of any problems at the family bach or suspicions surrounding past or present tenants.