Reporting Drug Activity

Drug Activity in Progress - Call 9-1-1

For drug activity that is in progress or needs an immediate police response, call 9-1-1. If a patrol car is available, an officer will respond. If you would like to speak with the officer, tell the 9-1-1 operator.

On-Going Drug Activity

On-going drug activity, which police need to be aware of but doesn't require immediate response can be reported by calling the following and ask to report a Narcotics Activity Report:

CALL NARCOTICS: Between the hours of 8:00 am - 4:00 pm you can call the Narcotics Section directly at (206) 684-5797. (After hours you can call the non-emergency line at (206) 625-5011.)

NOTE: You can report drug activity anonymously, but it is more helpful if you give your name and phone number in case additional information is needed. You can ask that your name not be released to anyone.

Signs of Drug Activity

It is often hard to be certain that what you are seeing involves drugs, but some patterns may indicate drug activity:

  • An unusually large amount of traffic coming to the building - in cars, taxis, or walking - often at strange hours. Visitors may sometimes pound on doors or shout to be let in. This traffic is usually quick, with people staying only a short time. Sometimes they don't go in at all; instead, someone comes out to meet them.
  • Finding drugs or drug paraphernalia (syringes, pipes, etc.) in the area.
  • Repeated, observable exchanges of items, especially where money is visible.
  • Offers to sell you drugs, or conversation about drugs that you overhear.
  • Noxious odors from or around the building, such as "musty" smells.
  • Buildings where extreme security measures seem to be being taken.
  • Buildings where no owner or primary renter is apparent, and no home activities, yard work, painting, or maintenance, etc., seems to be going on.

It is important to distinguish between disruptive or peculiar behavior and drug activity. Please note that a person's racial or ethnic background, economic status, or lifestyle are not indicators of narcotics activity.

Police

Sue Rahr, Interim Chief of Police
Address: 610 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-1900
Mailing Address: PO Box 34986, Seattle, WA, 98124-4986
Phone: (206) 625-5011
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The Seattle Police Department (SPD) prevents crime, enforces laws, and supports quality public safety by delivering respectful, professional, and dependable police services. SPD operates within a framework that divides the city into five geographical areas called "precincts".