H&S 11550 Investigations TrainingH&S 11550
Investigations
BY: OFFICER TYLER RAABE
Initial Observations
Actions of the individual
Looking around/Paranoia
Speech? Lethargic, “on the nod,” rapid
Clinical signs of intoxication
Pulse? Less than 60, more than 90
Pupil size? Dilated or Constricted
Eyes? Bloodshot, Watery?
Droopy or Retracted eyelids
Nasal/oral cavity? Missing teeth, hole in septal cartilage, heat bumps
Body temperature? Shivering or Sweating
Further Investigation
Statements made by the individual
Addict?
Last use of a controlled substance
How was the controlled substance used?
Smoked, injected, snorted, eaten
Performance on Romberg?
Less than 25, more than 35
Eyelid/Body tremors
Based on the totality of the circumstance,
do you believe the suspect is in violation of
H&S 11550(a)?
“Narcotic Influence Report”
OPD Form N-13
Read Miranda
Take first pulse
Complete pre-investigatory questions
Complete check boxes.
Check eyes for HGN, VGN, LOC, and size of pupils in room lighting
conditions.
If trained, check for reaction to light
Take Second Pulse
Perform Romberg exam
Check for signs of ingestion
Oral/Nasal cavity/injection marks
Photographs?
Take Third Pulse
Drug Recognition Expert (DRE)
opinion
Times one may want to ask for a DRE:
Are there conflicting signs and symptoms from initial observations and
observations at OPD
Are you comfortable testifying to your observations and opinions in court?
Are the signs and symptoms consistent with statements made by suspect?
Is the suspect alleged to have committed another or felony offense while
under the influence?
Is a DRE available?
A DRE evaluation should be completed before the chemical test
Chemical Test
A blood chemical test should be administered to complete a H&S
11550(a) Evaluation.
Urine test should only be offered if the suspect is taking an anti-
coagulant medication or afflicted with hemophilia
There is no current case law regarding forced blood draws for an
H&S 11550(a) arrest,
Ask for consent to submit to a chemical test.
If a subject refuses, explain this is part of the process of being arrested
for this violation, call for additional units and a supervisor
If blood is forced, one shall explain exigency why forced blood
Utilize the Blood Restraint Chair
All H&S 11550(a) arrest should be booked at OCJ per PC 853.6.
Checkbox #1 or #7 on the rear of a OCJ Form
Report Writing
Notification
Initial/Field Observations
Medical Problems
Modified Romberg
Clinical Signs
Signs of Ingestion
Statements
Toxicological Specimen
Questions?