James College fresher arrested in campus drugs raid

A James College first year has been arrested and questioned after a large amount of cannabis was found by police in the search of his residential block.

Witnesses saw officers leading the student away from the block after authorities were called in “to treat two students who became ill after taking non-prescription drugs”.

Residents of the usually quiet and unassuming quad became aware of frenzied activity when porters and paramedics rushed to the scene just before 5pm on Saturday, to assist a student who seemed to be unwell on an outside bench.

Police hurried to the scene shortly after the first student left with paramedics.

They entered a residential block, and emerged after just 15 minutes, leading the suspect calmly away, and later carrying out large bags.

Speaking to Vision, a spokesman for North Yorkshire Police confirmed: “A 21 year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class B drugs after officers found a large amount of cannabis at a property at the University of York’s James College on 9 May 2015.

“The man has been released on police bail to allow for further enquiries.”

The University quickly released a statement saying: “We have reminded all students of the very real dangers of taking illegal drugs.

“The University will not hesitate to apply the full force of its disciplinary regulations against students who bring illegal drugs onto campus.

“We will also involve the Police where necessary.”

A concerned English first year and eyewitness said: “I saw someone passed out on the bench and then it all got bigger and bigger.

“When they got out [the suspect] looked like he was handcuffed.”