A MAN has been charged after drugs were recovered during a raid on a house.
Police searched the property in Sulgrave, Washington, on Tuesday.
As a result, Paul Cairns, 25, of Wellington Court, has been charged with possession of amphetamine and cannabis.
He will appear before Sunderland Magistrates’ Court on March 20.
A quantity of drugs was recovered from the address where it became apparent the electricity meter was being bypassed.
A 48-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of abstracting electricity and received a caution.
The action forms part of Operation Impose, aimed at tackling reported drug crime and disorder issues in the area.
Washington Neighbourhood Inspector Paul Stewart said: “Anyone who has information about drug use or supply in their community should let us know so we can ensure action is taken.”
People are also being warned about the dangers of tampering with gas or electric supplies.
Insp Stewart added: “Tampering with any electricity or gas supply is not only an illegal activity, it can put the property at risk and more importantly endanger people’s lives.
“We will continue to work to identify these types of offences and take action to ensure the safety of our residents.”