NCJ Number
138614
Date Published
1991
Length
39 pages
Annotation
This analysis of drug testing in Indiana focuses on procedures for processing drug samples, the demand for drug analysis services, and barriers to improving the processing of drug samples in the criminal justice system.
Abstract
Data were gathered through interviews with more than 120 users and service providers in Indiana's drug sample processing system. Results revealed that 11 public and private laboratories process drug samples for the Indiana criminal justice system. No national standards exist for the organization of these laboratories. Two-thirds of the local law enforcement agencies and county prosecutors contacted in the study believe that the turnaround time in the laboratories is fast enough to meet their needs. However, 9 of the 11 laboratory directors think that their lab services can be improved, that their labs are understaffed, and that their labs are unable to meet peak demand periods promptly. The findings also suggested that the demand for testing services fluctuates during the year, although no seasonal patterns exist. The number of drug cases submitted to State Police laboratories increased by 65 percent between 1987 and 1989. Findings indicated that although the drug sample processing system is generally adequate, it needs to address several problems. These include a personnel shortage, limited basic training for road officers, the need for advanced training for narcotics officers, inadequate communication and coordination regarding the processing of drug samples, and the lack of procedures for setting standards for laboratories. Recommended actions include increasing personnel, establishing an advisory group, increasing training, and publishing a newsletter. Appended methodological information