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Law enforcement describes new on-scene substance-testing device after multiple overdose calls
Summary
A law enforcement staff member described use of and justification for a handheld device that provides a probable identification of unknown substances without opening evidence bags, citing about 36 local overdose calls and safety and training considerations.
A law enforcement staff member described a handheld substance-identification device the department is considering or obtaining, saying the tool can provide a probable identification of an unknown substance without officers opening packages and potentially exposing themselves.
The officer said Brown County law enforcement responded to about 36 overdose calls in the referenced year and that at least some overdoses involved unknown substances. The staff member said testing currently requires handling and opening packages or using field test kits, and described the proposed device as a technology that analyzes the contents without direct contact and provides a probable identification, reducing exposure risk for first responders.
Why officials want the device
The law enforcement staff member said the device would shorten the time needed to get a probable identification at the scene, removing the need to open evidence and limiting first-responder contact with potentially dangerous powders. The officer said several other agencies in the state already use similar technology.
Training and limits
The staff member emphasized that the device provides a probable identification rather than a laboratory-confirmed forensic result and discussed the need for training on safe handling and proper interpretation. The transcript also referenced the need for evidence handling procedures and interagency coordination when testing and storing seized or open samples.
Ending
The transcript records the presentation and description of the device, including training and safety considerations, but does not record a formal procurement vote or an authorization to purchase. Officials indicated other agencies in the state have used similar tools and that training and evidence procedures would accompany any deployment.
