Lawrenceburg PD To Receive New Tool To Combat Drug-Impaired Driving

Lawrenceburg is one of 52 agencies statewide that will receive the device.

Photo provided.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) – Police agencies are using a new roadside tool to combat drug-impaired driving.

The Criminal Justice Institute is providing 52 Indiana law enforcement agencies a device called SoToxa Mobile Test System.

The handheld analyzer uses an oral fluid swab to detect the presence of six kinds of drugs: cocaine, methamphetamine, opiates, cannabis (THC), amphetamine and benzodiazepines.

Lawrenceburg Police Department was among the 52 agencies statewide to receive one of the devices.

Officers will begin using the devices in the field this month in response to the emergence of drugged drivers taking place in the state and nationwide.

“For decades, officers have been using handheld devices such as portable breathalyzers in the field, but this is the first time they’ll be able to test for the presence of drugs,” said Devon McDonald, ICJI Executive Director. “This technology is a game changer for road safety and Indiana law enforcement.”

Much like a portable breathalyzer, the SoToxa test can be refused, and the results cannot be used as evidence in court to determine if the driver was impaired. The purpose of the test is to further establish probable cause, which can be used by the officer to make an arrest, administer a certified breath test, take the suspect for medical treatment or apply for a warrant to administer a blood draw.

In total, ICJI will distribute 66 devices to 52 departments around the state. The units cost $4,500 each, are reusable and were paid for with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration funds.

See a full list of departments that will be receiving the SoToxa Mobile Test System at https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/INSTATE/2020/12/15/file_attachments/1626499/SoToxa%20Recipient%20List.pdf.