Course Overview

Drug-related crimes are impacting every community across the United States. Law enforcement agencies devote a tremendous amount of resources to combat illegal narcotic activity.  Uniform patrol officers are in a prime position to target drug offenders. From the drug addict to the upper-level dealers, patrol officers must be prepared to handle these unpredictable criminals. There are various techniques and tactics that patrol officers can utilize to be more effective at arresting drug violators. 

 The officers must be familiar with basic drug identification as well as search and seizure case law. Knock & talk operations, when conducted properly, can be a very successful tactic to combat illegal narcotics trafficking. Officers must receive proper training and understand the limitations of knock & talks for this tactic to be effective. All too often, drug dealers are arrested, prosecuted, and found “not guilty” due to poor report writing or officer testimony in court.

 Concealment methods used by drug dealers are becoming extremely complex.  Information will be presented to identify hidden compartments and common places drug dealers attempt to conceal contraband. Detecting unusual driving behavior within seconds as a vehicle passes by can be a hard concept to recognize. Understanding of behavioral analysis is essential for all officers both in the field and during a criminal investigation. 

Officers will only get one opportunity to assess the suspect before deciding to conduct a vehicle stop; therefore, it is imperative to educate oneself further on human behavior. Proper report writing and courtroom testimony are necessary to secure a conviction and send the drug violator to prison.  Officers will receive tips for testifying along with terminology that should be included in drug arrest reports. After attending this course, patrol officers will have the resources and training to seize larger quantities of drugs, firearms, and U.S. currency.