Safer Narcotics Identification in the Fentanyl Era: Lessons from Rhode Island State Police

60 min

// Defense & Security

Fentanyl and other synthetic drugs have transformed narcotics testing, increasing the need for safer, faster substance identification in the field. In this discussion, Rhode Island counterdrug analyst Erik Burmeister shares how agencies navigate testing workflows today, from roadside seizures to controlled environments, using tools such as handheld Raman, trace detection, and traditional methods. Through real-world examples, you'll learn how agencies balance officer safety, evidence handling, and investigative speed while addressing challenges like lab backlogs and testing limitations.

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Webinar ID

https://metrohm.scene7.com/is/image/metrohm/6168__original?qlt=85&ts=1786384426153&dpr=off

Key learning points

How agencies are improving officer safety during narcotics identification
Where handheld tools fit within real-world testing workflows
When to conduct on-scene vs controlled environment testing
Key limitations and decision points in narcotics identification today
Operational benefits agencies are seeing from modern identification tools