Justice Speaks Podcast Episode #28

In this episode of Justice Speaks, JSI Co-Founder David Wallace interviews Tom Page, Drug Recognition Expert Emeritus and JSI Associate, to delve into the vital role of Drug Recognition Experts (DREs) in identifying and addressing drug-impaired driving.

The Origins of the Drug Recognition Expert Program

The DRE program began in the mid-1980s, developed by Los Angeles Police Department traffic enforcement officers. It emerged as a systems approach to identifying drivers impaired by drugs other than or in addition to alcohol.

Specialized Training for DRE Officers

DREs undergo rigorous training to recognize, document, and interpret the behavioral and clinical signs of drug influence. These experts play a pivotal role in investigations, often providing testimony in court about an individual’s ability to safely operate a vehicle.

The 12-Step DRE Procedure

To determine impairment, DREs follow a comprehensive 12-step procedure, which includes:

1. A breath test for alcohol.
2. Assessment of vital signs like blood pressure and body temperature.
3. Pupil size evaluation and gaze tests for signs of impairment.
4. A final blood test to confirm drug presence.

This structured approach ensures thorough analysis and accurate identification of substance influence.

The Seven Categories of Drugs

DREs categorize drugs into seven groups based on their effects:

• Central Nervous System Depressants: Alcohol, benzodiazepines.
• Inhalants: Solvents like gasoline and nitrous oxide.
• Dissociative Anesthetics: PCP, Ketamine.
• Cannabis: Marijuana and synthetic THC.
• Central Nervous System Stimulants: Cocaine, methamphetamine.
• Hallucinogens: LSD, psilocybin mushrooms.
• Narcotic Analgesics: Heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone.

This classification system aids in determining the drug or combination causing impairment.

Challenges with Drug Testing

Unlike alcohol, where impairment can be gauged with a per se legal limit, drug effects vary widely. Substances like marijuana complicate the testing process due to differences in how they are metabolized and stored in the body.

Beyond Drugged Driving

The expertise of Drug Recognition Experts extends beyond traffic enforcement. They contribute to workplace safety, domestic violence cases, child abuse investigations, and even training medical professionals. Their skills have applications wherever drug influence is a factor.

Global Reach and Impact

Since its inception, the DRE program has expanded to all 50 U.S. states, Canadian provinces, and multiple countries. Over 7,000 DRE officers are now recognized worldwide, making roads safer and communities more secure.

Learn More

Discover how DREs are transforming law enforcement and road safety. For more information, visit the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) website and explore their resources on drug recognition.