DRUG-TAKING IN AUCKLAND

Dominion, Volume 19, Issue 216, 8 June 1926, Page 4

DRUG-TAKING IN AUCKLAND

SALVATION ARMY OFFICER DECLINES COMMENT [BY TELEGBAPH.J—PBESS ASSOCIATION. Auckland, June 7. Statements regarding the prevalent use of drugs by young people in Auckland were referred to the local headquarters of the Salvation Army, whose officers in the south were responsible for the serious allegations made. Lieutenant-Colonel J. J* Toomer said that he had read the reports as published in the papers, but did not wish to make any comment. It was represented to Colonel Toomer that some of the statements were of a very serious nature and cast a grave reflection on the youth of the city. A specific statement had been made with regard to one girl, who was said o have been drugged by eating chocolates with drugs added. This girl’s word had been tested by an officer going and buying chocolates of a certain number, which was .found to contain a drug. , . "I know nothing of that, said Colonel Toomer. "I think there has been a mistake somewhere, but I am wnting to the national in Wellington regarding the matter.” “But surely such a case as that quoted in the south would have been referred to the police for investigation? persisted the reporter. Colonel Toomer declined to discuss this aspect also, stating that the matter would probably be cleared up from Wellington.