I Was Undercover In The UK's Toughest Drug Gang | Minutes With |

This week we sat down with Neil Woods, who was an undercover narcotics officer for 14 years. Neil told us about the toughest cases he had, drug addicts and dealers he has met, the drugs he had to take whilst undercover and what made him change his views on the drug policies.
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[@ladbiblestories]

Follow Neil at his personal Twitter @wudzee0 and at @UKLEAP Twitter and Instagram. Follow LEAP Europe here: leap-europe.org You can also find Neil's books here: www.penguin.co.uk/books/1110612/good-cop--bad-war/9781785032707 www.penguin.co.uk/books/1114855/drug-wars/9781785037467

[@waynejacksonofficial]

@LADbible This is a reboot of old footage!

[@waynejacksonofficial]

i still like it!

[@jonathanm9436]

Anybody interested in a perspective similar to Neil's should read Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs by Johann Hari. I loved this book. It explains the cause and effects of the drugs prohibition, and the pointlessness of the war on drugs. It also explains the principal reason for people choosing drug addiction, which Neil alluded to in his story about Uma.

[@netcoms197]

ths story is nonsense, very easy to see that. the guy s far more likely to be a long term drug user turned grass or juyst lying for this story. no reason to belieev any aspect of thsi story is as presented, or true in any way not that police are good, but no "undercover agent" knocks on a door of a suspect without a back story, this is a pantomine to sell soem media.

[@bhawanasharma7844]

@@jonathanm9436 have the key 7.30

[@PotatoTrain]

Honestly love the honesty of the people who are interviewed. So important and refreshing to see clear deep dives that aren't sensationalised. Keep it up Ladbible

[@actualtuna5428]

Love your honesty here

[@mrsurprise2294]

@@actualtuna5428 To be honest so do I

[@erikreagan2339]

That's funny because I don't believe a word this guy is saying. I don't even believe this guy was a cop. The stuff he is saying doesn't add up it's bull shit.

[@sebpowers1429]

@@erikreagan2339 sorry pablo escobar

[@squishyturtle456]

@@erikreagan2339 wdym?

[@badlarry172]

"the more we police this, the more we sharpen that sword" spot on this is a very very important interview, the powers that be all need to see and take serious notice of what this guy is saying

[@joulupukki1607]

True this guy speak nothing but facts here. Easy to tell he also very smart individual who can think on his own and doesnt be like most ppl who takes stances on things just to give some kinda image about themselves or to please others or just to fit in

[@realstoriesuk89]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioaWhZdordN5jKs

[@rs72098]

U.S. crime rates have fallen dramatically since the war on drugs began in 1971 by Nixon RESEARCH IT. British crime rates have also fallen since the war on drugs began.

[@AW-zu4kk]

@@rs72098 false, in 1970 crime rate/ population was 1,96% , 1971 = 2,02% , 1972 = 2,00% , 1973 = 2,29% and keep increasing until 1997 where it drastically starting to lower

[@dimadobrik4516]

@@rs72098 what crack are you smoking my man 😂

[@skyrider1969]

I actually went to school with Neil.It's strange to see an old school mate on KZbin talking about his experiences as an undercover policeman.If the "war on drugs" isn't working, the UK government needs to sit down with guys like Neil to discuss a new approach. Great interview.

[@hemana3859]

I wouldnt trust him for a second. Ex undercovers lie more than on duty narks.

[@craigross341]

There's a good question. How does an undercover cop guarantee they won't run into someone they know when they're with a criminal who thinks they're someone else?

[@johnmcbeth5366]

I don’t believe he would publicly announce these facts. He would be shot

[@jakeherring3260]

you've just narrowed down a search for a certain group of people. nice one.

[@craigross341]

@@jakeherring3260 Oh, please. There'll be at least 2,000 people who'll know him from his home town. If he was worried about persec he wouldn't have made the video.

[@hannahktbffh5366]

I completely agree with Neil, decriminalisation is the only way forward. Constantly prosecuting victims does nothing but ruin already difficult lives. Our prison system is shocking too, so ineffective.

[@paulwally9007]

The problem with decriminalisation is that it normalises drug use. Many who sit on the fence will try drugs that previously they wouldn't have thought about taking, because the stigma of illegality has been removed. And cheap, pure drugs can speed-up addiction for those who are predisposed to it -lack of finance can put a cap on drug use, low-cost strong drugs allow people with low incomes to be high constantly. And some state-manufactured drugs are harder to withdraw from than natural ones: methadone vs heroin for example. Legalising drugs pushes organised crime into different fields -career criminals don't go straight, they look for new ways to operate.

[@hannahktbffh5366]

@@paulwally9007 Portugal did it 20 years ago, and they have far less overdoses and deaths than the UK due to drugs. Norway have recently followed suit. The UK is so far behind on drug laws.

[@paulwally9007]

@@hannahktbffh5366 I can't speak for Portugal but Norway is a much more affluent country than those of the UK. It's education system is also superior. The gap between the rich and poor (a good indicator of crime levels) is much smaller. It can cope with more progressive laws because socially it is more progressive. Just check the difference in atmosphere between Oslo and London late on a Saturday night. London is FAR more dangerous. Norwegians are far more sensible, self-controlled and law-abiding.

[@paulwally9007]

@@undercoverfarts9741 What's your point?

[@CrawfordGrimaldi]

Let us all take a second to congratulate drugs for winning the war on drugs.

[@gjantschke9150]

Some gang member watching this right now: wait, isnt that Bob?

[@jasminahmic6279]

😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@joesalad69]

Yeah, but it would go like this - "Oi! Is that Bob, bruv? This is madness, bruv. Bloke was a grass, innit? Fuckin' grass -"

[@Inklett13]

My dad is named bob…. The plastic skeleton in the back seat of my car is named Bob… after my bobdad…

[@ThroatGoatNancy]

​@@joesalad69that hurt my head reading that.

[@austinwillett7817]

*innit

[@francesbale1409]

This man deserves so much respect for how he has put his life and health in danger, to help reduce the violence in our country and how he was able to realise that undercover ops actually further the violence. He's clearly incredibly clever and has a good heart, he is not judgemental and has compassion for the people he's met in such terrible circumstances. Interviews like this are so important, its spreading a really salient message that people at their rock bottom are often victims of abuse and are hurting and vulnerable needing compassion not judgement. Also it brings to light the long long chain of violence that is attached to your bag of cocaine on a saturday night. Gang crime is robbing so many youth of their young adulthood and potential. Its such a complicated issue! Thansk for this ladbible!

[@loveconquersall143]

So well observed and said. Thank you for that. I really enjoyed what you wrote - and I totally agree with you 👌👍

[@arobe7695]

"...the harder we police this, the more we sharpen that sword". Wow. What a statement, and what a brave, introspective man to see through to the humanity in those violent, terrifying situations. We need more conscientious people like him not just in law enforcement, but in all humanity nowadays.

[@realstoriesuk89]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioaWhZdordN5jKs

[@joetaylor486]

Utterly fascinating, and completely in line with my views as a medical professional. Nobody sets out to be addicted, of to use harmful substances. There is always a back story.

[@irishblueeyes8856]

It is the only way now we tried to stop drugs but it not work people getting arrested for weed government need take the money from gangs

[@garrettl8247]

ok we get that people make bad decides in life but there MUST be the police there to keep law and order, to just say " oh there are some nice people dealing drugs and ruining lives so let's stop." no, you need more police to track down the evil people who make and spread drugs through the country. I don't care if you are a teenage that just wanted to make some money or whatever story they have, they still made that bed and they must lay in it.

[@realstoriesuk89]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioaWhZdordN5jKs

[@adamaguire]

@@garrettl8247 "you need more police to track down the evil people who make and spread drugs through the country" - omg you are completely missing the point! There's nothing 'evil' about making a substance exactly how others want it - if anything, it takes skill. Like the man in the video emphasises, the market never shrinks.. so the solution is legalisation! Anything that is criminalised ends up being run by typically violent gangs, simply as those involved are no longer 'protected' by the law. It's all incredibly ironic but all of the violence of drug gangs is nothing but a consequence of the current law.

[@garrettl8247]

@@adamaguire no making drugs legal is not the answer unless you want kids injecting heroin or doing coke and dying at 21, and yes the piece of shits of sell drugs are evil and I don’t care if one is “ a good kid” he deserves jail time just like the rest, so no what the guy in the video says is still stupid.

[@boondogglecreator1]

When he said "it's just cannabis" does restore my faith a bit in the police, not all of them think backwards 💪🏽💪🏽

[@bookcreator]

I suspect that forward thinking is why he’s no longer a cop 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@mrkipling2201]

It’s better to have a joint than a pint of beer. The only bad thing about a joint is the tobacco in it.

[@jacobl6714]

@@mrkipling2201 no tobacco in a joint chief : p that'd be a spliff

[@tjwood51x63]

100% agree

[@thetaffia.]

@@jacobl6714 its the same thing think you're on about a blunt

[@potatoplayz2436]

So refreshing to hear a cop talk well about the war on drugs. Decriminalisation is coming, it’s a matter of time.

[@hearmenow909]

Don't bank on it in the UK.

[@potatoplayz2436]

@@hearmenow909 well medical private cannabis is readily available for those who need it. It’s a matter of time

[@thatdude-xj4qe]

War on drugs is big business. It isn't going to change any time soon.

[@PokeMerchanter]

@@hearmenow909 my guy, you might be right, but there are already factories pre built in scotland for cannabis cultivation. Dont get me wrong this might not be 100% true i cant even remember where i read it. But ya never know

[@potatoplayz2436]

@@OAPHarmerHerrStarmler I’ve literally been prescribed medical cannabis since putting this comment. 100% legal. Times are changing :)

[@catau8000]

my house has never been so clean and tidy hahaha ...this man is not what I expected from an undercover drug copper ... he's very intelligent, ballsy yet gentle, sympathetic and incredibly interesting...breaking stereotypes, thought provoking listen this

[@stephaniecoomey2356]

Calm the fuck down mate everyone is a human Jesus Christ lmao

[@Markem1998]

That’s why he was chosen to go undercover

[@michaeledwards427]

Before I read his book, which is an outstanding read, I was totally against the legalisation of drugs in the UK. But in his book he explains how countries that have legalised drugs are coping. Plus also how the process should be managed. It's interesting to see his face, as it was never shown in the book. Also he was actively vilified by police top brass when he left the police and started to campaign for legislation. All the very best Neil, we need people like you with experience and wisdom in government making decisions. Thank you.

[@LesroyBuckley]

Mate - I am glad you felt this way after reading Neil's books... the message is profound isn't it. I'd definately recommend reading (or Audiobook) Johann Hari's, "Enter the Scream" - it's incredible!

[@uhhhhh262]

Is this the guy who wrote “the crime factory”? If not it’s another undercover with a very similar story - and a great book!

[@Kirberbs]

Also important to understand how addiction works and how those that are the must vulnerable fall prey to it… it’s a health crisis, not a criminal one*

[@Oob144]

maybe all drugs except heroin. as an ex-addict it ruins lives. it's the devil's make. I say ex addict. but once and addict always an addict.

[@ButchLotus1]

@@Oob144 what would be the point of keeping heroin illegal? All drugs should be legalized.

[@raony9554]

Much respect to this guy, talking some real facts about the reality of the world we live in

[@martinc.720]

“real facts”, as opposed to just “facts”

[@xavierashurst4734]

These types of docu”pieces” deserve an Emmy/BAFTA or something - I have watched all I them and nothing has gripped me more and the more tragic the story the more compelling it is - please continue. Also thank you for all the people who have took part so far - incredibly brave but they have to know how influential their stories are!!

[@kev6798]

Excellent video. Where there is demand, there will be supply. Its true that a traumatic response maybe to take drugs, similar to PTSD taking anti-depressants. The invention of safeguarding and mental health awareness is improving lives.

[@sassybakka]

Thats the second undercover cop who says exactly the same thing, legalising and regulate drug market.

[@frankskinner5548]

This is one of the best interviews I've seen on this subject. Thank you for your words. This means a lot.

[@syon600]

Maximum respect to this man. Please continue. Watch till the end and his recommendation to police to stop perpetuating failed drug policy by direct inaction, for future

[@takatakiful]

Man I love you guys. These interviews are so valuable. Very powerful message. Thanks to Neil also for sharing his story!

[@PeaceAndNoisy.]

These interviews are the best thing I've seen on youtube in the last few years. Smashing it.

[@AllanKlo63]

Powerful stuff, especially this brave man’s words at the end.

[@Sarah.reads.sometimes]

It’s actually so refreshing to hear someone in the force (even if they’re retired) say we need to decriminalize drugs. He’s so right about the people who get addicted & who sell.

[@pimchella]

This is one of the very very honest interviews I've ever seen. He opened up the mind of the drug users in the way we never get to know them, so as the police system. Very constructive to all of us. Thank you.

[@karlb6273]

This interview gave me a bit more insight into a world I was not familiar enough with, and forced me to have a think regarding my opinion on drug policing. What a fantastic eye-opening interview! Not saying I’ve changed my mind, but the issue is obviously quite a lot more complicated than I thought, even though I did not have a simplistic view on this subject to begin with.

[@CLANK...]

Decriminalisation is literally the only way. Imagine people with drug misuse issues/MHIs being able to collect clinically produced medication, where the supply chain is properly regulated, right down to the farmers in south America. They could even have policy stating you much go to rehab at least once per year to maintain your prescription. It would end all drug related violence and take the backbone out of organised crime literally over night. This was the case pre 60s, dating back thousands of years, and the problem of 'drugs on our streets' was unheard of. Now look at it all, and it's simply down to prohibition pushing one of the biggest economies into the hands of the criminals; easy fix.

[@joestockton7016]

Have you ever watched "The Wire"? I would highly recommend it.

[@alwaysdisputin9930]

@@joestockton7016 Yeah it's a classic.

[@myfeelingsarehurt5062]

I was a cop for 14 years. I can say this 100% honesty, there wasn’t a day, where i didn’t feel like I was playing for the wrong side.

[@JOCoStudio1]

Out of interest, what made you stick with it for so long? Was there enough counterbalance of feeling you were doing good to just tolerate the bad?

[@myfeelingsarehurt5062]

@@JOCoStudio1 got myself into debt. Wasn’t skilled in anything else. Ruined my life.

[@jaimemurphy2208]

Bollocks

[@tysonfue476]

this actually made me look differently towards a lot of druggies i know including family, now i dont see them as druggies, i see them as hurt people trying to forget about traumatic events that happened in they're lives like uma. instead of looking down on them like i usually do, i asked them the reason why they are like that and the replys i got made me hella respect them on how strong they actually were because if that was me i would have taken my life long ago😔. thanks for this video, it actually taught me something i wouldnt have known for awhile💯

[@jaalul]

I don't know how I got to your channel but I've been watching it three days straight. Every minute I have, I'm watching another short. Incredible

[@ladbiblestories]

Welcome - pleased to have you!

[@jamo6758]

This guys honesty is really refreshing. Has my full respect.

[@rogersage7468]

Best interview iv seen on this platform so far I'm so shocked at what he said and gives me some hope for the future

[@viktoria3818]

This is such an interesting view on the topic. He makes such good points. Love it

[@Uncle.Krueger]

For real

[@warwarneverchanges4937]

Such a real messege from someone who actually knows what hes talking about while politicians are lost for decades repeting the same crap.

[@Unforgivingness420]

I think this guy is a hero. He went to see the heart of the problem, then made up his mind to put an end to the suffering. He was undercover, doing the most dangerous job a cop could have, and decided that rather than worrying about his safety he would spend time figuring out how to help others. On top of that he knows the real way to fix it. As a society we are never going to be comfortable with drug use, but its time to find a better way. These people need help and until we accept that as a society, our neighbourhoods and citys will never be completely safe. Legalize drugs because if you dont, you could be the next one to lose a family member or your own life. As somebody who has family struggling with addiction, please dont give up on them.

[@poisonedchalice]

When he described Una's generosity ❤️ and what she had to endure as a child 😥

[@joecaz3452]

His solution to the war on drugs is spot on that's how you stop it make it worthless for dealers

[@hollyvan-de-velde9180]

This! Completely agree 😊 Great interview

[@lt9948]

Wow extremely honest and intelligent perspective things look very different once people walk a mile in another person's shoes the real problem is politicians are so far removed from Society on many issues in Society we need more case studies like this to change policies on a array of topics..this mans a campaigner if iv ever seen one props to you sir...

[@amstergal]

Excellent! He is speaking his truths with compassion and honesty and a reasonableness I wish others would embrace.

[@mrme3207]

This is such a quality interview! And tells a true story from someone who knows this, it hits hard.

[@juicer404]

uma sounds like a good soul, i hope shes found peace today

[@greenieman26tube]

Today I was with my kids and I ordered to much McDonald's. With the spare burger I offered it to a young guy who was sitting (I presume homless) on the streets looking very cold ,tired and unhappy, I offered the burger and his first words were "Are you sure you don't need to give this to your children" I was stunned. Showing that there can be a pure, beautiful side to people in bad situations.

[@TheSkyHive]

Bless this man, some of the best opinions i have heard on the topic.

[@PodOfHeat]

"It's just cannabis though isn't it..." Obviously knows the difference between hard drugs and softer ones. That reassured me

[@monkey_with_a_skateboard6823]

Nothing but admiration for this man and the message he is standing for!

[@andylane7142]

That was the most powerful and impacting perspective I’ve ever seen on this subject.

[@scottcarlass8887]

The last part of this is the most important. The War on Drugs needs to end. This man is a blessing. Once again that is: "WE HAVE TO LEGALLY REGULATE DRUGS. TO TAKE THE POWER AWAY FROM ORGANIZED CRIME, TO SAVE LIVES AND MAKE A SAFER SOCIETY."

[@elkneto4334]

Greatest respect to you Mr.Woods. You have such an eye for the underlying problems and are so empathic and true to your feelings to Speak out the way you do and really trying to make a difference.. World needs more of your kind.

[@vmwindustries]

What an amazing interview! I never expected that an officer would have sympathy for people. My mind is blown. Of course every likes cops that bust serial killers, but I didn't expect this.

[@scottbeecham9658]

Massive respect for this guy and his honesty

[@lewisw7865]

Completely agree with legalising drugs and taking them away from criminals

[@dravensdraven4905]

Wont happen with a past generation of propaganda stigmatization of drugs but can hope for 20 years from now nation by nation and will see the decrease of violence and death, and all to stop a grown adult changing their state of consciousness. We will be looked upon as so ridiculous in the future the same way we see prohibition of alcohol.

[@ryanmorgan9589]

The government cant just legalise drugs for a few reasons. Actions while on drugs will and should still be punished. If the government just said hey we are legalising drugs it opens a whole gate of excuses and defence lawyers will get them off charges. You also can’t just make it legal for everyone. You could end up with more people on drugs so it would have to be policed in a way to stop that from happening. Facilities would have to be built where they go in, get there hit but have to stay until they are of sound mind. There would have to be some sort of system in place to track these people on how much they are taking. People that just say legalise drugs are naive. People who are keeping to themselves should not go to jail or be charged for taking drugs. Any actions that are unlawful while on them should be.

[@dravensdraven4905]

@@ryanmorgan9589 Of course actions on drugs would still be punished and those laws are there already for assault GBH etc. I dont quite think you grasp how much violence death and destruction the illegal drug business harbors. Entire countries have fallen and set back their development hundreds of years all to stop adults consuming mind altering substances. Legality doesn't mean I want drugs to be thrown from every window onto passing by pedestrians. I would like the choice as a human being to not have to buy drugs from some underground kingpin and fuel the cycle further. No clue where you got the idea that I thought anyone on drugs should be exhumed from all laws. I'm not going to change ur mind i really dont know why i even bothered, take some relief in the fact that this is just a snapshot in human history and soon before we know it we'll both be consumed by worms and earth. So what does it really matter just sit and wait to die accept their lies consume the propaganda. Ain't It great to be human!

[@ryanmorgan9589]

@@dravensdraven4905 Hey man I can debate things in a good manner and my mind is always open to change 👍 I never said anyone said they should be exhumed from the law. I stated there is much work involved before legalising it as it will open arguments when someone does commit a crime. The lawyers defence could be “my client took more drugs then she or he would have on the street because the law made it legal and that’s why the crime was committed” The only way to legalise it in a safe way is to police it. The only way I see it working is clinics are built that not only control their addiction but also to help them eventually get off them. You don’t want addicts to be complacent. It’s not healthy. I’m all for this. I think it’s the best way. But will cost money and governments don’t won’t like that. Even this has flaws because how to you stop someone who hasn’t tried it before? We don’t want to end up with more people on drugs just to lower crime. Even then how much do you give them? Because if don’t give them enough they will get more elsewhere. Generally drug addicts are liars so you can’t ask them how much were you on. 9/10 times they will lie.

[@ryanmorgan9589]

@@dravensdraven4905 Also it won’t stop gangs selling drugs. They will still sell party drugs. They will try develop new drugs to get people back in. That action alone could kill a lot of people.

[@ollZYr]

That was such a good insightful watch! Keep them coming please

[@beastyboyBlue]

It's absolutely heartbreaking to hear about these very vulnerable people,they say don't give them money when they are begging but to be honest I do,they are living in an awful existence. Thank you for being so honest.

[@willrobinson5679]

This is really profound. I find myself rethinking my opinion about these issues with some ferocity. Thank you.

[@mikeloveskimbo]

Great interview. If you want a great read this guy has a book on his time working undercover in the Midlands. Good Cop Bad War. Worth looking at.

[@vantheman1238]

That was something to watch on a Sunday morning. Absolutely brilliant.

[@TheGentGaming]

Well done for finally putting a mic on the interviewer, LADBible :)

[@Showmetheevidence-]

His comments at the end are eye opening!

[@jennaforney3919]

Amazing story I myself am a recovering heroin addict your lived experience is so valuable... I couldn't agree more when you said drugs need to be legalized but controlledb%

[@angierox6964]

Excellent. Thank you so much for speaking out. I’m sorry you had to experience those situations but you are using that knowledge to help change the world.

[@GlennsFastReviews]

He's absolutely right - the war on drugs just makes it worse, resulting in increased violence towards many different groups, both in user countries like the US and the UK, and also in the countries where the drugs are made. The only way to deal with this is to legalize drugs.

[@gerardscott5815]

A genuine human being with a conscience. Decent bloke

[@ProseIium]

really enjoyed this talk from Neil, its really intense to hear this from someone who joined the force to fight the good fight, only to learn he was pouring kerosene on the fire rather than water. Sad to hear that the top brass turned on him when he started campaigning for legalisation.. its the only way forward for regulation, money for education and support for rehabilitation.

[@liveticket7168]

Neil said it all perfectly! I'm a little bit in shock, wow, kudos to Neil for having such a great understanding of a problem and the courage to speak up about it. If every cop would have the courage to watch this video with an open mind that would be a great start to ending the war on drugs. Best video I've watch in awhile...

[@jeskiedoteth]

"My house has never been so tidy" - made me LOL

[@mitchbrook4112]

hes very well spoken, he can really paint a vivid picture

[@daniel213141]

12:38 A pivotal part of the interview in my opinion. The root causes of addiction for many is some kind of trauma incurred in their life. Quite illuminating for a single minded, under cover police officer, with a very specific mandate.

[@karicreates7668]

I started to learn about this from Dr Gabor Mate on YT. It changes everything

[@nandovee2025]

This programme should be on TV. So good. Everyone should watch these documentaries

[@FrostshadowStudios0310]

Egotistical people: Nope. Let's rather show people stupid TV programmes they'll never watch🤣

[@paulwally9007]

The secret lovechild of Tony Robison and Vladimir Putin. On a serious note, his empathy for the victims of addiction really shines through this interview. And his personality is absolutely perfect for undercover work -he's the last person anyone would suspect of being a policeman.

[@knowledge3563]

hello from russia y you talk about putin i not understand you

[@christopherarrowsmith497]

I think he is saying they share a likeness

[@knowledge3563]

@@christopherarrowsmith497 maybe you are right but to comment like this The secret lovechild of Tony Robison? and Vladimir Putin is funny way to say they lookalike secret lovechild everyone now putin have kids so its not real secret ?

[@christopherarrowsmith497]

@@knowledge3563 haha your joking right.yeah funny was to put it 100% think that’s the point

[@jo-vf8jx]

🤣

[@almilhouse9059]

What a brilliant set up and a wonderful idea to have all these different interviews. Thanks to you all, those interviewed to everyone in the team.

[@dxbbred]

"having said that, my house has never been so clean" caught me well off guard with that one

[@lumalbran7868]

This opened my eyes beyond measure, I have been thinking about it for days. Thank you for the video

[@mrotfl]

“It’s just cannabis init” 3:51 what a g

[@pepespliff8980]

been loving these interviews it doesn't get any more intrusive and real

[@guygirard4274]

Wow , as a recovering addict , its awesome to see a former undercover policeman doing his best to explain the harms of the war on drugs , there might be a future after all

[@stephaniecoomey2356]

So there’s no future if drugs aren’t legalised? Enjoy your relapse bud.

[@nickbohnlein634]

What an absolute great person, more people in power should listen to him and his experiences

[@rayfarthing5121]

I’ve been on the wrong side of the law my whole life and never thought ide respect a copper by what he said

[@spritemultipack]

I can't imagine the people who grew up dreaming of being a cop seen their time being spent doing drug rips. They just get caught up in the system like everyone,on both sides of the law , the show The Wire portrays that pretty well.

[@rayfarthing5121]

@@spritemultipack I’ve seen how corrupt the British police force is it’s awful

[@FunkyTomo]

Same.... Ex addict here.

[@louisejames1844]

What an interesting man. His honesty and humanity make his perspective fascinating. His story about Uma made me weep.

[@WretchedIcon]

I'm blown away. I did a paper in college about the decriminalization of drugs and failed my writing final. This guy's experience and eloquence speaks far more profoundly than I could ever write. I'm thankful to have found this.

[@boyfodark]

Thank you for seeing things as they are and making this video!! You just gained a fan.

[@KD-kl4sx]

If there was any human that looks like an undercover officer, this man is him

[@superfinster]

What utter rubbish ! He's the least likely person I''ve ever seen to be an undercover officer ! He may have looked different in his younger years in the police in order to fit in, but as he looks in this video, he looks more like an accountant than a streetwise drug user ! 🙄

[@TjTj74]

👍I know crack addicts.It's in their eyes.How he done this without the sober dealers not knowing is suspicious in my opinion

[@Thomas.lawrence147]

They should make a film on this guy, I think it would be great. So many interesting stories !

[@llamadude7437]

That was a really moving video i completely agree with Neil. Arresting young people for possession of drugs will ruin their lives. It is far more important that we spend are money and time educating the young instead of locking them up.

[@alv2617]

Absolutely fascinating and incredible message at the end!

[@instinctmlbb757]

When an actual narc says the words “it’s just cannabis really ain’t it” just proves that shit shouldn’t be illegal. I wonder how many officers make arrests for drugs during the day then go home to a fat spliff or what ever drugs they desire😂

[@pinnipedwithhumanqualities5276]

exactly

[@jimbo6238]

i use to sell E's to 2 coppers, had a few joints on several occasions with one of them. he also bought speed regularly from someone i know. he didnt give a hoot, idk why he was even a cop. dont even know what became of him either. this was nearly 15 years ago.

[@Thrifty032781]

Believe it or not, some people can actually survive without using drugs.

[@AthleticGamer17]

@@Thrifty032781 anyone can survive without drugs! Some people use it as an excuse to "escape reality" while making your life worse depending on the drug you use! Some might use it for ptsd or whatever but I don’t think you need a normal person with no problems should do drugs.

[@nonono9194]

No drugs should be illegal period, who tf has a right to say what adults can or can't put in their own bodies, the people who support drugs being illegal have the blood of 100,000s of dead on their hands whether it's cause of drug dealers or overdoses, it's so backwards and useless to society

[@01sevensix]

Some of the most refreshing content anywhere. Stunning turnaround by LadBible

[@bobndizbignob]

Listening to him makes so much sense my cousin was a drug user stuck in his ways like he said turn them away and legalize it because the way on drugs ain't working so just monitor it like he said years in the field and he knows police can't win

[@anxiousbrusselsprout]

Absolutely brilliant, and Neil Woods is a very brave man, an absolute hero.

[@jonpeters9065]

Such an interesting and informative discussion, thank you. Interestingly, I came about this clip because I'd just watch a simular interview with a drugs trafficker. Completely different end of the spectrum but they both had exactly the same conclusion. I'm anti drugs personally but; I do understand the desire to escape from reality and to shut out horrific experiences. If the best way to reduce drug use is to decriminalised and regulate then that is what should be done. More help is needed for the people vulnerable to the draw of drugs. More, better and easier to access mental health services. More community engagement and community centres, programs etc.

[@nlbm]

Powerful, provocative interview, much food for thought here.

[@jimtatum7344]

Fascinating how close his description is to the TV show ‘The Wire’ - which makes the same point that we are fighting the war on drugs the wrong way and it will never end. It even explores the idea of ‘legalising narcotics’ in the show. Interesting to hear a real person who’s been involved first hand, say that exactly that is the solution.

[@markbeddow9220]

Thankyou for being so brave. Your observations are so pertinent. I was a mental health worker for thirty years, I concur with your remarkable and important testimony. Blessings to you dear Man 🙏

[@pegleg2959]

What he says around the 20:00 mark is something that happens. I'm British, and I was an iv heroin addict for about 8 years (3 years clean now). Somehow, I was never prosecuted with any crime (I was arrested once, and questioned a few times). If I had been charged with a crime, I know it would have made it a thousand times harder for me to get clean and get my life on track. I'm now studying to become an electrician, and I wouldn't been allowed on this course if I had a criminal record. I remember one instance, about 4 years into my addiction, where I had been caught stealing from unlocked parked cars. To be clear, I had been doing this for weeks, the whole area was looking out for the culprit. The owner of the car I eventually got caught stealing from, a huge, gruff, scary man, he grabbed me and wouldn't let me go until the police arrived (which I don't blame him, I would have run away had he let me go). I have never felt so guilt ridden, remorseful and embarrassed than I did in that moment. What had my life become? This man, who had worked hard for his belongings, had to stand out in the street in the rain in his pyjamas, holding onto me so I didn't escape like a wild animal. I was mortified. The police arrived, it was a pair of young officers, a man and a woman. They put me into the back of their police car without handcuffing me, they turned off their radios, and they talked to me. I told them the whole truth, that I was an addict and that I had been stealing. They listened, properly listened, they asked me how I had got into this situation, I told them. They treated me like a human being (which is not how I felt in that moment). They went and spoke to the man who had caught me, and they decided not to arrest me (bear in mind, they had me on CCTV breaking into these cars). I think they could all see I was genuinely sorry and disgusted with myself. The female officer actually gave me £20, because they could see I was withdrawing, and they put me in contact with services that eventually helped me get clean. I never stole another thing after that night. There were a few occasions where I was close to pinching something when I was really struggling, but the will to not let those people down that had shown me mercy and kindness, somehow overrode the urge to get rid of the withdrawal (which is a big deal, withdrawal will make you do some crazy things).

[@arnp786]

15:23 when he says sometimes he felt he's on the wrong side, that hit different. Those words have a shocking realisational impact behind them.

[@bananafluffster]

Thank you! This is very eye-opening. I've always seen dealers as mere "exploiters": a clear cut black and white nothing more, and I've always supported this narrative that they deserve everything the law brings them down with. Not knowing this information has a lot of real life repercussions. I have voted with a one-sided perspective, and medium like this that peers into the the other side is very necessary.

[@FrostshadowStudios0310]

If only more people had the same sense as you do…

[@SOLXXX41]

He's incredibly brave to show his face now let alone do the job of an undercover cop.

[@werdvdgvgch]

I bought his book, Good Cop Bad War, in 2017 to read on the train home from London and I became OBSESSED. It really opened my eyes to the drug situation in the UK and just how badly it is represented in media and on the news

[@reeee4vhjk]

When a similar team did my area Humberside Hull/Grimsby main ones came as a man women couple in 30s pretending to be heroin addicts who had recently moved to the area They went to parts where addicts would hang out and said they wanted to sell stuff they had shoplifted (Bags full of coffee/toiletries etc) From then they got in and after 5 months they got 52 people sent down mainly low level addicts and dealers all on camera for supplying

[@fxm7183]

i wish every law enforcement officer around the world thought like this guy.

[@chief274]

I love the outcome from this guys experience... Respect man

[@neurobiologyofdrugaddictio8451]

People often confuse the symptoms with an illness. Psychoactive substances are used by many especially student, and 80% of whom will eventually quit and never go back. (Professor Carl Hart, Professor David Nutt) For them its weird, funny, euphoric and somewhat pleasant, until tolerance kicks in. However those who suffers from mental health disorder especially related to traumatic experience during childhood, trying drug for the first time is a life changing experience. To actually realise that the way you felt your entire life wasn't normal, to realise the reason why you are unable to enjoy life like everyone else is not because you are a weak person. This is what leads to drug addiction, is not the drug itself but how this drug makes you feel, and this experience is rather unique for everyone. Unfortunately. The best War On Sucks would be to invest all these money into mental health and drug tolerance research. PS Drugs don't make you desire to be a criminal, they don't make you lose morality or become violent. Also the actual health impact is usually the result of toxic cutting agents and other impurities. However, being around criminals such as drug dealers and seeing all this violence eventually turn you into similar person. You are dependant on these people, they have something that you desire the most and they know it, and they will use it to manipulate you. I think its obvious, legalisation will solve every negative impact on society and economy that resulted from drug war. Of course if a government is the one (who knocks) makes profit from drugs than it would make sense to keep drugs illegal.

[@joshradcliffe8563]

Your point about drugs not making people violent is interesting, when Hamilton Morris was on Joe Rogan's show he was very critical of "pharmacological determinism" i.e. the idea that you are a certain way because of the drugs you take. I suppose the most relatable example of this for non-users is to consider the spectrum of behaviour found amongst drunk people, you get nice, chilled out drunks and belligerent, irritable drunks and shades in between.

[@thelonesomewanderer8359]

@@joshradcliffe8563 alcohol is the most violent drug of all, it's one of the most dangerous drugs in the world full stop, with addiction, the health problems, anger issues etc, but it's so widespread just because it's legal and there's no way it'll ever be turned illegal.

[@stevemartin6882]

@@thelonesomewanderer8359 Its likely that alcohol is impossible to criminalise being the result of the natural breakdown of sugars by bacteria into ethanol. Sure you can ban its sale and consumption in public, but all it'll take is a sack of potatoes, a bunch of grapes or bananas, some sugar or whatever other high-sugar fruit or veg you happen to have, give it a few days past its best in warm surroundings and voila, you have a party. Government may as well make some money off this. But, for the many of drugs available, you're going to need a chemistry set, space, and a whole heap of ingredients not easily obtainable from Sainsburys. See the difference - organic vs inorganic. That some people suffer ill-effects from alcohol, isn't something that can be easily policed. Animals are frequently observed displaying drunk behaviour having consumed fermented fruit, though its not often you see them in dark alleys trying to score heroin or crack

[@thelonesomewanderer8359]

@@stevemartin6882 pretty much all drugs are organic though, opium plants, coca leaves, magic mushrooms, cannabis plants, LSD made from mushrooms and seeds, only ones i can think of that aren't organic are MDMA and amphetamines, though even with amphetamines it is found on plants

[@stevemartin6882]

@@thelonesomewanderer8359 So what's your point? I was illustrating why it is impossible for alcohol to be criminalised, as I can create alcohol with a bunch of legally grown potatoes in my garden plus a couple of weeks in the house near something warm. This is the same for the organic drugs you've mentioned. So very easy to get yourself a bag of shrooms, though it is considerably harder to make MDMA, amphetamines, ket, heroin , the excuse would have to be very good: "Sorry m'lord, left my spuds in the drawer, and now I've got vodka" vs "Sorry m'lord, I set up my lab with the intention of making fools gold, but somehow managed to make a batch of heroin with a street value of £1800" Just can't see them going for it

[@StCreed]

Holy shit... that really changed my perspective on this problem. Best interview I've seen in years.

[@insertgenericusernamehere2402]

14:45 I hope she got through that habit and I hope she's better now.... What a poor horrible story to go through