Nitrous Oxide is now classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
It is now a criminal offence to possess nitrous oxide without a legitimate reason.
Under the legislation, repeat, serious users could face up to two years in prison while those convicted of supply it could face up to 14 years.
Superintendent Phillip Stinger, Head of Specialist Operations, said:
“We have welcomed the introduction of this new law, as it will give us as officers more options when dealing with the anti-social behaviour so often associated with the use and supply of nitrous oxide as a recreational substance.
“This means a proportionate approach to tackling those found in possession of nitrous oxide cannisters, including explaining the change in law and encouraging people not to use or by the substance.
“But where we are dealing with a larger number of cannisters, it is right we take robust and swift action and put this new legislation to use.
“The use of nitrous oxide in public spaces is a nuisance to communities and has been shown to pose a considerable health risk.”
Notrous Oxide
Illegal
Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
Superintendent Phillip Stinger
Head of Specialist Operations
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