Narcotics

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason a second officer should be present during a narcotics test?

To ensure proper handling of narcotics

To assist with the technical aspects of testing

To verify the identification of the substances

To administer NARCAN® in case of exposure (correct)

When should officers conduct narcotic testing?

In the presence of witnesses

Indoors, with proper ventilation

In a controlled lab environment

Outdoors, to prevent contamination (correct)

What should be done with the tested sample after completion of a narcotics field test?

It should be stored for future reference

It should be sent to lab for further testing

It is to be destroyed regardless of the result (correct)

It can be analyzed by the testing officer

What is required when officers have questions about using the field test kit?

Contact the Narcotics Unit for assistance Signup and view all the answers

What describes the role of the EPU after a substance has been tested?

To transport the controlled substance for testing Signup and view all the answers

What training is required for the second officer who is present during narcotics testing?

NARCAN® administration training Signup and view all the answers

What must be done if a field test kit is unavailable for narcotics testing?

Follow specific procedures as if it tested negative Signup and view all the answers

What is the policy regarding the citation or arrest for possession of illegal narcotics?

A positive field test or probable cause is required for citation/arrest. Signup and view all the answers

What safety precautions must officers take when conducting field tests on narcotics?

Wear department issued nitrile gloves and protective masks. Signup and view all the answers

Where should officers obtain the narcotics test kits?

From the Forensic Investigations Unit. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to follow the procedures outlined by the Douglas County Attorney's Office?

To guarantee successful prosecution of drug cases. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a field test is not available for suspected illegal narcotics?

Officers must wait for laboratory confirmation before proceeding. Signup and view all the answers

What specific training is required for officers concerning narcotics test kits?

Training on proper use at the OPD Training Academy. Signup and view all the answers

What was added to the OPD 'Narcotics' policy in the recent update?

Procedures related to the new OPD Special Operations Checklist. Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do when handling suspected narcotics?

Exercise extreme caution. Signup and view all the answers

What must an officer establish to arrest a suspect if a substance tests negative?

There are facts establishing probable cause. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a substance initially field tests negative but is later identified as a controlled substance?

An affidavit and application for an arrest warrant is prepared. Signup and view all the answers

What is required from officers prior to conducting narcotics-related special operations?

Completion of a specific operational form. Signup and view all the answers

How should officers handle narcotics test kits after their use?

Destroy them following established policy. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of Forensic Investigations employees when an arrestee denies knowledge of illegal narcotics?

To take hand swabs for further testing. Signup and view all the answers

Who provides guidance to officers regarding special operations?

The CIB Captain or their designee. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the reports prepared by the testing officer?

They are essential for the arrest warrant process. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a valid reason for establishing probable cause?

The suspect's history of drug-related offenses. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Omaha Police Department General Order 47-24: Narcotics

Effective Date: August 6, 2024
Subject: Narcotics policy updates
Policy Purpose: Updates the existing OPD "Narcotics" policy, adding a new section for the OPD Special Operations Checklist (Form 27).
Confidentiality: The entire policy is confidential.
Narcotic Field Test Kits: Used for controlled substance evidence. Not all illegal narcotics have kits. Field testing is potentially dangerous and requires caution.

Procedure for Narcotics Testing

Policy: OPD doesn't cite/arrest for illegal narcotics unless a field test is positive or other probable cause exists. Follows Douglas County Attorney procedures for prosecution. Undercover purchases by Narcotics Unit officers must be documented.
Field Testing:
- When a suspected narcotic is found, a field test is performed if a kit is available.
- This happens before citing/booking for possession.
- Officers must obtain and use narcotics test kits provided by the Forensic Investigations Unit. They must receive training on proper kit use at the OPD Training Academy.
- Officers must wear nitrile gloves and protective masks during the test.
- Extreme caution is needed when handling suspected narcotics to prevent airborne exposure.
  - A second officer equipped with NARCAN® should be present to administer it in case of accidental inhalation. Fentanyl and suspected fentanyl-containing narcotics should be tested outside. Using a chemical hood vent is recommended for testing fentanyl inside.
- Officers should consult the Narcotics Unit if they have questions or concerns.
- After testing, the sample is destroyed and the used kit is documented as "approved to be destroyed."
Negative or No Kit Results: If the suspect substance tests negative or a kit is unavailable, probable cause to believe the substance is a controlled substance must be established by the officer.
Positive Test Results: The testing officer submits the remaining substance to the Evidence and Property Unit (EPU). The used test kit also goes to the EPU separately.
Reporting: Complete a Supplementary Report (OPD Form 200A) documenting the field test procedure. The Narcotics Unit secretary must complete a Test Request Form (NPSL 01) and send it to UNMC Lab for testing.

Additional Procedures

Special Operations: Requires the completion of OPD Special Operations Checklist (OPD Form 27) prior to conducting operations. Some exceptions apply for federal operations.
Arrests: Follow Douglas County Attorney procedures for narcotics arrests, including requests for Forensic Investigations employee hand swabs and recording evidence (money, phones, drugs) in the Evidence and Property SAFE system.
Purchases: Officers complete Confidential Funds Expense Voucher (OPD Form 65A) for documentation of undercover purchases.

Other Notes

References: Includes previous OPD General Orders and PPM Monthly Updates.
Accreditation: Adheres to CALEA accreditation standard 83.2.1.
Policy Implemented by: Todd R. Schmaderer, Chief of Police

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Description

Test your knowledge on the Omaha Police Department's General Order 47-24 regarding narcotics. This quiz covers updates to the narcotics policy, field testing procedures, and protocols for handling controlled substances. Understand the confidentiality and operational guidelines for effective law enforcement.