NCJ Number
206409
Date Published
2004
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This report describes the Drugwipe device for drug testing and presents evaluation results.
Abstract
Drugwipe is a pen-size device that can be used by law enforcement to test for the presence of invisible traces of illegal narcotics on surfaces, in sweat, and in saliva. Drugwipe is capable of detecting cocaine, opiates, cannabinoids, and amphetamines/methamphetamines/Ecstacy. The technology was evaluated in 1996 with respect to its accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. High reliability ratings were achieved and the device is now used by the United States Custom Service as well as State and local law enforcement agencies. In 2002, the Drugwipe II technology became available, which includes an improved capacity making it appropriate for use in roadside testing of drivers. The design and use of the Drugwipe is described, followed by a review of the 2002/2003 Drugwipe II Amphetamine testing evaluation, which was conducted in Munich, Germany. The accuracy of the Drugwipe in this evaluation was in the range of 92 to 97 percent; specificity was between 89 and 96 percent; and sensitivity was 100 percent. A similar field evaluation of Drugwipe Cannabis was conducted in 2002 by German traffic police; the overall accuracy was good enough for the police to adopt Drugwipe Cannabis as a roadside screening device. The ease of use and benefits of the Drugwipe are enumerated, including its safety, its portability, and its ability to provide on-site results within minutes. Figures, references