TRUNARC IN ACTION Field-based narcotics ID enables speedy prosecution while saving valuable lab resources Phoenix, AZ Police Department The Controlled Substances Officer (CSO) program within the Phoenix, AZ, Police Department is an innovative, cost- effective operation that enables rapid charging of drug offenders. Officers in the program receive annual training on the field identification of narcotics, and must pass written and hands-on competency tests each year. Originally, four drugs were designated for field identification: cocaine, cocaine base, marijuana and methamphetamine. CSOs test approximately 7 ,000 items of drug evidence annually. Supported by a preliminary test, the program achieves a prearraignment adjudication rate of about 85 percent. The success of the progra

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