Chapter VII NARCOTIC INVESTIGATION Overview This chapter presents various techniques

in the investigation of any related narcotic death related cases. The investigation should
determine the manner of death which is either homicide, suicide or accidental. A thorough
investigation at the scene helps the medical examiner in determining the cause of death. です。
Since narcotic use has direct link with criminal activities, investigation of this must be
specialized. The following are some reasons why it has to be investigated in a specialized
manner: 11. Illicit drug underworld is specialized and syndicated. 2. The underworld
organization is composed of and operated by selected and highly proficient members of the elite.
3. Drug addicts are clannish and they represent a rare group of individuals. 4.T4. Drug abusers
and or addicts have their own lingo and way of life. .7 5. The illicit drug trade is completely
underworld in conception and operation capable to espionage or subversive operations; it is a
hidden crime where there is rarely a complainant. T
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9-n Considerations in Narcotic and Investigation The Violation ५ a) Republic Act No. 9165 (The
Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002) - Under this law, the following are punishable: 1.
Importation of Dangerous drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals; 2. Sale,
Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution and transportation of Dangerous
Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals; 3. Sale, Trading, Administration,
Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution and transportation of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled
Precursors and Essential Chemicals; 4. Maintenance of a Den, Dive or Resort where dangerous
drugs are used or sold in any form; 5. Being an employee or visitor of a den, dive or resort; 7 6.
Manufacture of dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled 114 Precursors and Essential Chemicals; 7.
Illegal Chemical Diversion of Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals; 8. Manufacture or
Delivery of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs
and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals; 9. Possession of Dangerous Drugs; 10.
Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs;
Possession of dangerous Drugs during Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings; 11. Possession of
Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs during Parties,
Social Gatherings or Meetings; 12. Use of Dangerous Drugs; Cultivation of Plants classified as
dangerous drugs or thereof; Vice and Drug Edu are sources
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13. Failure to comply with the maintenance and keeping of the original records of transaction on
any dangerous drugs and/or controlled precursors and Essential Chemicals on the part of
practioners, manufacturers, wholesalers, importers, distributors, dealers, or retailers; 14.
Unnecessary Prescription of Dangerous Drugs; 8.F 15. Unlawful Prescription of Dangerous
Drugs The Violators - The Persons of Importance 12 a) The Addict or User - A "user" is one
who injects, intravenously or intramuscularly, or consumes, either by chewing, smoking,
sniffing, eating, swallowing, drinking, or otherwise introducing into the physiological system of
the body, any of the dangerous drugs. An "addict" is one who habitually uses dangerous drugs. 1.
Determine his history. 2. Has he just used or administered the drug? Get urine and, if possible,
blood samples for analysis within 24 hours after administration. 3. Is he in possession of the
drug? 4. Determine the reason for possession. Is it for sale or for own consumption? 5. If
possession is for reason other than personal use, he must be accordingly charged under RA 6425.
6. Is he suffering from the signs and symptoms of drug abuse? This will guide the investigator to
determine whether the violator is an addict or not. b) The Pusher - "Pusher" refers to any person
who sells, administers, delivers, or gives away to another, on any terms whatsoever, or
distributes or dispatches in transit or transport any dangerous drug or who acts as a broker in any
such transaction. 1. Ordinarily, he is an addict himself. 2. If not an addict, determine the reason
for his possession of the drug. Is it for sale, for giving L
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away, etc.? 3. If he is selling, determine his clientele. Get their names and other personal
circumstance. 4. Determine, if possible, his source of supply, their names, addresses, etc. 5.
Determine the number of times that he had been arrested and charged for the same offense. 6. If
he is a recidivist, state so in the complaint or information to be filed. c. The Narcotic Evidence
These include opium and its active components and derivatives, the coca leaf and beta eucaine,
and the hallucinogenic drugs. It includes all preparations made from any of the foregoing and
other drugs and chemical preparations; whether natural or synthetics, with the physiological
effects of a narcotic or a hallucinogenic drug. Opium and its derivatives "Opium" refers to the
coagulated juice of the opium poppy and embraces every kind, character and class of opium,
whether crude of prepared; the ashes or refuse of the same; narcotic prepared; the ashes or refuse
of the same, narcotic preparations thereof or therefrom; morphine or any alkaloid of opium;
preparations in which opium enters as an ingredient; opium poppy; opium seeds; opium poppy
straw; and leaves or wrapping of opium leaves, whether prepared for use or not. Field test: Burn
a small quantity of the suspected leaves or has a sweetish odor. 15 substance. The odor or smell
is similar to burnt banana Morphine - the drug varies in different forms such as: Powder - white,
odorless granulated powder with a very bitter taste. Sometimes however, illicit traffickers add
color to deceive investigators. 116 Vice and
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Block with embossed marks like "999" "555" "AAA" "1A", etc. with "Lion", Elephant", "Tiger/
Dragon" brands. Licit morphine used for medical purposes invariably comes in powder form,
tablets, capsules with the brand name of the manufacturer. 14-16 Heroin (Dimorphine
Hydrochloride/ Diacetylmorphine) is a white, odorless, crystalline powder with a very bitter
taste. Heroin is the hydrochloride of an alkaloid obtainable by the action of acetic anhydride or
morphine. The alkaloid base may be made by treating morphine with acetyl chloride, washing
the product with a dilute alkaline solution and crystallizing from alcoholic solution. NOTE: Both
heroin and morphine may be sold by pushers in bundle containing about .03 gram of powder.
The price will depend on supply and demand. 77 Cocaine (Methyl ecgonine). Cocaine (C12 H
21n 04) is an alkaloid obtained from the leaves of Erythorxylon coca and the other species of
Erthroxlon Linne, or by synthesis from ecgoine and its derivatives. the Preparation - It may be
made by moisturizing ground coca leaves with a sodium carbonate solution, percolating with
benzene or other solvents such as petroleum benzene, shaking the liquid with diluted sulfuric
acid, and adding to separated acid solution and excess of sodium carbonate. The participated
alkaloids are removed with ether, and after drying with sodium carbonate, the solution is filtered
and the ether distilled off. The residue is dissolved in methyl alcohol and the solution heated with
sulfuric acid or with alcoholic hydrogen chloride. This treatment splits off any acids from the
ecgonine and esterifies the carbozyl group. been liberated are removed with chloroform. The
aqueous After dilution with water, the organic that have solution is then concentrated,
neutralized, and cooled with ice, whereupon methyl ecgonine sulfate crystallizes.
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S 9 d sh er Mar x Hallucinogen Drugs These are the drugs that are capable of creating
hallucinations in the mind of the taker such as Lysergic acid diethylamide commonly known as
LSD and other drugs falling under this category are DMT, STP, peyote and morning glory seeds.
Synthetic Drugs Those having the same physiological action as a narcotic drug, such as
methadone and demerol. Other Dangerous Drugs These include self-inducting sedatives, such as
seconbarbital, phenobarbital, pentobarbital, amobarbital, salt or a derivative of a salt of barbituric
acid: and salt, isomer or salt of an isomer, of amphetamine, such as benzedrine of dexedrine, or
any drug which produces a physiological acting simlar to amphetamine; and hypnotic drugs,
such as methaqualone, nitrzepam or any other compound producing similar physiological effects.
20 Barbiturates - Manufactured synthetically as salts of barbituric acid. All names of these drugs
are in al, such as pentobarbital, secobarbital (seconal), amobarbital, phenobarbital, barbital, etc.
Categories according to Effects . • 27 Long acting barbiturates - take effect with in 30 to 60
minutes and last up to 8 hours, e.i. Phenobarbital Intermediate acting barbiturates - take effect
with in 15 to 30 minutes and last up to 6 hours, e.i. amobarbital and butabarbital. Short acting
barbiturates - take effect with in 10 to 20 minutes and last up to 6 hours, e.i. Pentobarbital and
secobarbital. Ultra short barbiturates - take effect with in 45 Chapter VII: Narcotic Investigation
119 |
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seconds and last up to 30 minutes, e.i. thiopental sodium. Note: Slang Terms of Barbiturates 28
Pentobarbital - "yellow jackets" - Secobarbital - "red devils" - Amobarbital- blue devils/ blue
birds" Amosbarbital - " rainbow/ double trouble" Note: Under FDA law, it is illegal to sell these
drugs without prescription. There is no illegal possession charge under the FDA law, but under
RA 6425, there is such a violation. Amphetamines - Stimulate the central nervous system and
have the ability to combat fatigue and sleepiness. These are also known at uppers. Chemical
Names a. Amphetamine Sulfate b. Dextroamphetamine Sulfate c. Methamphetamine
Hydrochloride Amphetamines come in varied forms, colors and shapes. Examples of
amphetamines are benzedrine or the "bennies", dexedrine or the "dexies", and the methedrine
known as the "meatballs". Shabu is the most widely known amphetamine in the country today.
The compound (methamphetamine hydrochloride) is also known as "poor man's cocaine". The
latter term, however, is misleading because although cheaper than that cocaine, shabu is
nonetheless expensive as compared to other drugs such as marijuana or solvents. 29.30 The
Volatile Substances - also called the Inhalants, Solvents or Deliriants. This are chemicals which
when sniffed can produce intoxication effects such as gasoline, kerosene, thinner, paint, etc. The
most popular among them is the solvent rugby. These chemical substances are significant in
narcotic investigation because of their intoxicating symptoms that do not produce alcoholic
breath.
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HANDLING NARCOTIC EVIDENCE Evidence handling Physical evidence of various types

can do must to augment the inevitable oral evidence in a prosecution involving drugs. The
investigator should be constantly on alert to obtain physical evidence during an inquiry for
presentation in court. Drug seizures - One officer, preferably the officer who made the seizure,
should be detailed to take charge of the drug found. The following procedure should guide him:
1. Identify the seizure in some permanent way using markings or non-removable labels or wax-
sealed tie on tag. 2. The identification should give detail of the time, date and place of seizure,
and the name of the owner or suspect where an arrest had been made. 3. The officer should
complete the identification of the seizure by placing his initial or signature on the identifying
label. 4. Where a suspect charged demands a sample of the seized drug for independent analysis,
the desired sample should be place in a suitable container. It should then be sealed in such a way
as to prevent tampering preferably with the signature of the suspect and the officer appearing on
the seal. - 5. Where another officer later takes the seizure - as in during questioning that drug is
shown to suspect during questioning - that officer should continue the chain of identification by
placing his initials on the label. 6. Few parties as possible should hold the seized drug. A
permanent written record of the movement of the seizure, noting time, dates and signatures or
receiving parties should be maintained. 7. As soon as after seizure, the drug should be sealed in a
container in such a way as to prevent loss or tampering with. The seal should be affixed in such a
way that it will be impossible to open the container
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without breaking the seal. The seal should bear the same identification as the seizure itself. 8.
The officer in the area designated by his command should retain the seizure, the security of
which will satisfy the scrutiny of the court. 9. Where the nature of the seizure requires special
storage conditions or facilities, this should be arranged and the security of the seizure
maintained. 10. At the first opportunity, the officer should himself deliver the seized drug/s to the
laboratory for examination. 11. If the commitments of the officer holding the seized drug/s are
such that he cannot travel to the laboratory, he should hand the same to another officer who
should make the delivery personally. 12. If personal delivery is not possible, the seized drug(s)
should be carefully packed in a parcel, which is then sealed. This should be adequately addressed
and shipped by certified delivery mail. Photographs - A permanent written record should be kept
relating to photographs taken in the course of an investigation, noting the time, date and place of
the photograph, its subject the weather condition at the time it was taken. The technician might
also note details of film and camera operations. Several prints of each photograph should be
obtained, and on one copy, these details should be recorded together with the name of the
officers who can "prove" the photograph. The other print copies be retained unmarked for
possible submission to court. Photographs of, for instance, a meeting between two offenders can
adduce valuable corroborative evidence. Documents - Documents that may become evidence in a
prosecution should be retained in their original form. They should be treated in much the same
manner as drug seizures with regard to identification, and it is suggested that all under whose
supervision this is done can later "prove" the original, particularly incases where returned to a
person for production later in court. 122 Vice and Drug Education and Control
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he nd 22 ill ge nd elf or Investigative Records - Records in this particular category include: 1. 2.
3. 4. 5. Information on a suspect of drug movement Results of background inquiry on a suspect
The log or running sheet kept on investigator and suspect movement during surveillance or arrest
Investigator's notebooks and diaries Investigator's notes of conversations, events or interviews 39
ld of he he m h ld an ed bi, ce ce m. ug at he or S en d ed YA ld DRUG INVESTIGATIVE
PROCESS Roles of the PDEA Drug investigation in the Philippines is under the concern of the
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) being newly created and organized. The agency
has one among its powers and functions the initiation of all investigation proceedings concerning
drug cases, absorbing all drug enforcement units of the other governmental agencies like the
National Bureau of Investigation, the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Customs and
other agencies and bureaus with drug investigation divisions. As mandated by law and here
quoted, the PDEA shall "create and maintain an efficient special enforcement unit to conduct an
investigation and file charges and transmit evidence to the proper court". Proper handling of drug
evidence is necessary to obtain the maximum possible information upon which scientific
examination shall be based, and to prevent exclusion as evidence in court. Drug specimens, that
truly represent the material found at the scene, unaltered, unspoiled or otherwise unchanged in
handling, will provide more and better information upon examination. Legal requirements make
it necessary to account for all physical pieces of evidence from the time it is collected until it is
presented in court. With these, the following principles should be observed in handling all types
of evidence in narcotic investigation:
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1. The evidence should reach the laboratory as mush as possible in same condition as when it is
found. 2. The quantity of specimen should be adequate. Even with the best equipment available,
good results cannot be obtained from insufficient specimens. 3. Submit a known or standard
specimen for comparison purpose. 4. Keep each specimen separate from others so there will be
no intermingling or mixing of known and unknown material. Wrap and seal in individual
packages when necessary. 5. Mark or label each piece of evidence must be maintained. Account
for evidence from the time it is collected until it is produced in court. Any break in this chain of
custody may make the material inadmissible as evidence in court. Generally, the recognition,
search, collection, handling, preservation and documentation of evidence in narcotic
investigation rest upon the quality of people involved in the activity which they follow certain
guidelines for investigative success. Below is an illustration of a basic procedure in narcotic
investigation focused in the crime scene:
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Receipt/Report Complaint First Responder Security and Protection From this point: Cordoning
Conduct of Crime Scene Investigation Preparation Approach Preliminary CITYTAN Evaluation
of Physical evidence Documentation of crime Scene Preparation of Narrative Description Crime
Scene Search Collection of Physical Evidence Final Survey & Release of crime Scene The
illustration shows a general process in the crime scene investigation involving any crime which
is narcotic investigators can fundamentally base on a scientific crime scene processing. In the
flow of the investigation, it shows that upon receipt or report of a crime, the desk officer shall
record the date and time the report/ complaint was made, identify persons who made the report,
place of incident and a synopsis of the incident then inform his superior or duty officer regarding
the report.
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The first responders will properly preserve the crime scene. The security and protection of the
crime scene to get maximum scientific information that will help successful prosecution of
perpetrators. Then the formal investigation maybe conducted. Procedure at the Crime Scene
Upon Arrival at the Crime Scene a. Record time/date of arrival at the crime scene, location of the
scene, condition of the weather, condition and type of lighting direction of wind and visibility. b.
Secure the crime scene by installing the crime scene tape or rope (police line) c. Before touching
or moving any object at the crime scene determine first the status of the victim, whether he is
still alive or already dead. If the victim is alive the investigator should exert effort to gather
information from the victim himself regarding the circumstances of the crime, while a member
of the team or someone must call an ambulance from the nearest hospital. After the victim is
remove and brought to the hospital for medical attention, measure, sketch, and photograph. d.
Designate a member of the team or summon other policemen or responsible persons to stand
watch and secure the scene, and permit only those authorized person to enter the same. e.
Identify and retain for questioning the person who firs notified the police, and other possible
witnesses. Recording The investigator begins the process of recording pertinent facts and derails
of the investigation the moment he arrives at the crime scene. (He should record the time when
he was initially notified prior to his arrival). He also writes down the identification of person
involved and what he initially saw. He also draws a basic sketch of the crime scene 126 Vice and
Drug Education
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and takes the initial photographs. This is to ensure that an image of the crime scene is recorded
before any occurrence that disturbs the scene. As a rule, do not touch, alter or remove anything at
the crime scene until the evidence has been processed through notes, sketches and photographs,
with proper measurements. Searching for Evidence a) Each crime scene is different, according to
the physical nature of the scene and the crime or offense involved. Consequently, the scene is
processed in accordance with the prevailing physical characteristics of the scene and with the
need to develop essential evidentiary facts peculiar to the offense. A general survey of the scene
is always made, however, not the location of obvious traces of action, the probable entry and exit
points used by the offender(s) and the size and shape of the area involved. b) In rooms, buildings,
and small outdoor areas, a systematic search of evidence is initiated, (In the interest of
uniformity, it is recommended that the clockwise movement be used). The investigator examines
each item encountered on the floor, walls, and ceiling to locate anything that may be of
evidentiary value. He should: give particular attention to fragile evidence that may be destroyed
or contaminated if it is not collected when discovered, if any doubt exists as to the value of an
item, treat it as evidence until proven otherwise, carefully protect any impression of evidentiary
value in surfaces conducive to making casts or molds, note stains, spots and pools of liquid
within the scene and treat them as evidence, proceed systematically and uninterruptedly to the
conclusion of the processing of the scene.
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and takes the initial photographs. This is to ensure that an image of the crime scene is recorded
before any occurrence that disturbs the scene. As a rule, do not touch, alter or remove anything at
the crime scene until the evidence has been processed through notes, sketches and photographs,
with proper measurements. bon and ene me her the don £ £ £ § ( 2 PE h her nd ed firs Searching
for Evidence ng ent me a) Each crime scene is different, according to the physical nature of the
scene and the crime or offense involved. Consequently, the scene is processed in accordance
with the prevailing physical characteristics of the scene and with the need to develop essential
evidentiary facts peculiar to the offense. A general survey of the scene is always made, however,
not the location of obvious traces of action, the probable entry and exit points used by the
offender(s) and the size and shape of the area involved. b) In rooms, buildings, and small outdoor
areas, a systematic search of evidence is initiated, (In the interest of uniformity, it is
recommended that the clockwise movement be used). The investigator examines each item
encountered on the floor, walls, and ceiling to locate anything that may be of evidentiary value.
He should: give particular attention to fragile evidence that may be destroyed or contaminated if
it is not collected when discovered, if any doubt exists as to the value of an item, treat it as
evidence until proven otherwise, carefully protect any impression of evidentiary value in
surfaces conducive to making casts or molds, note stains, spots and pools of liquid within the
scene and treat them as evidence, proceed systematically and uninterruptedly to the conclusion of
the processing of the scene. OS he
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The search for evidence is initially completed when, after a thorough examination of the scene,
the rough sketch, necessary photograph and investigative note have been completed and the
investigator has returned to the point from which the search began. c) In large outdoor areas, it is
advisable to divide the area into strips about four (4) feet wide. The policeman may first search
the strip on his left he faces the scene then the adjoining strips. d) It may be advisable to make a
search beyond the area considered to be immediate scene of the incident or crime. For example,
evidence may indicate that a weapon or tool used in the crime was discarded or hidden by the
offender somewhere within a square- mile area near the scene. e) After completing the search of
the scene, the investigator examined the objects or persons involved. Methods of Crime Scene
Search - As maybe applicable in narcotic investigation, the following methods of searches maybe
used: Strip Search Method, Double strip or grid method of search, Spiral Search Method, Zone
Search Method. Collecting Evidence - This is accomplished after the search is completed, the
rough sketch finished and photographs taken. Fragile evidence should be collected as they are
found. Removal of Evidence - The investigator places his initials, the date and the time of
discovery on each item of evidence and the time discovery on each item of evidence for proper
identification. Items that could not be marked should be placed in a suitable container and sealed.
Tagging of Evidence - Any physical evidence obtained must tagged before its submission to the
evidence custodian. Evaluation of Evidence - Each item of evidence must be evaluated in
relation to all the evidence, individually and collectively. Preservation of Evidence - It is the
investigator's responsibility to ensure that every precaution is exercised | 1 128 Vice and Drug
Education and Cont
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to preserve physical evidence in the state in which it was recovered until it is released to the
evidence custodian. Releasing the Scene - The scene is not released until all processing has been
completed. The release should be effected at the earliest practicable time, particularly when an
activity has been closed or its operations curtailed. Pointers to Consider in Sketching the Crime
Scene 1. To establish admissibility, the investigator must have had personal observation of the
data in question. In other words, the sketch must be sponsored or verified. 2. Sketches are not a
substitute for notes or photos; they are but a supplement to them. 3. Write down all
measurements. 4. Fill in all the detail on your rough sketch at the scene. Final sketch may be
prepared at the office. 5. Keep the rough sketch even when you have completed the final sketch.
6. Indicate the North direction with an arrow. 7. Draw the final sketch to scale. 8. Indicate the
place in the sketch as well as the person who drew it. Use the KEY capital letters of the alphabet
for listing down more or less normal parts of accessories of the place, and numbers for items of
evidence 9. Indicate the position, location and relationship of objects. 10. Methods or systems of
locating points (objects) on sketch 11. Critical measurements, such as skid marks, should be
checked by two (2) investigators. 12. Measurements should be in harmony; or in centimeters,
inches, yards, meters, mixed in one sketch. 13. Use standard symbols in the sketch. 14. Show
which way doors swing,
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15. Show with arrow the direction of stairways. 16. Recheck the sketch for clarity, accuracy,
scale, and title key. The Role of Soco in Narcotic Investigation A number of crime incident
committed in the country are unsolved and/or dismissed by trial courts because of insufficiency
of evidence. In cases of narcotic investigation, it is important that pieces of drug evidence that
will provide clue on the suspects/offenders identities can be found in the crime scene. However,
those vital evidence in the crime scene are either left in the crime scene are critical in the
prosecution on the case in court with the advent of new technologies, they could be analyzed
scientifically for these purpose. The recovery of physical evidence during investigation of crime
scene is the most important task of current law enforcement. In most cases, the material items of
evidence and descriptive information collected from the scene of the crime make a big difference
in the success and failure of cases in court. The capability of the Crime Laboratory to provide
scientific interpretation and information depends on the recognition, recovery and documentation
of the evidence in the crime scene. Field investigators work as part of the forensic team as that of
laboratory technician. If evidence collected in the crime scene is not properly accomplished, the
work of the crime laboratory is impeded and even negated. The recovery of physical evidence
during investigation of crime scene is the most important task of current law enforcement. In
most cases, the material items of evidence and descriptive information collected from the scene
of the crime make a big difference in the success and failure of cases in court. Past experience
shows that a well-trained team, coordinated and properly equipped, can be of great advantage in
effectively and efficiently recovering evidences. Personal knowledge and instinctive actions or
institutions are of great help in the solution of the criminal and drug related cases. However there
is no substitute for the adoption and practice of scientific investigation. The idea of enhancing
SOCO in narcotic investigation is to assist drug investigators in terms of scientific approach in
investigating criminal cases, specifically heinous ones. 130
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DRUG TESTING Field Test - The test describes in the following pages are designed to give
investigators emergency means of making on-the-spot tentative identification of samples seized
or purchased during the course of investigations. Results obtained should not be regarded as final
identification since a number of such drugs are marketed in combination with other chemicals
from which they must be separated (by laboratory methods) before true results can be attained.
Care of Apparatus and Reagents - Reagents should be protected from excessive heat and light.
Acid reagents should be stored in glass bottles. Reagent stability should be tested from time to
time with drugs of known identify. All apparatus used in making test should be thoroughly
cleaned before reusing. Marquis test is used for morphine, codeine, heroin and other opium
derivatives. When brought into contact with morphine, heroin or other opium derivatives, the
reagent develops brilliant colors ranging from blue to reddish purple. There are some other
substances, which also produce colors with this reagent. No confusion, however, should arise
once the operator is familiar with the specific colors given by the opium alkaloids. It is therefore
essential that the test be observed with known samples before any unknown is tested. Making the
Test - In making drug tests, the following are considered: 1. Allow the reagent to drain to one
end of the ampul 2. Break the ampul between the fingers along the scored line. 3. Introduce a
small bit of sample into the open end of one-half of the sample by scraping a cube or pinch of
powder held between the fingers with a sharp edge. Tap the closed end so as to shake the sample
further into the tube and thus bring it into contact with the reagent. 4. After the test, the ampul
should be rinsed with water before discarding.
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* DO NOT THROW AMPUL IN WASH BAIN OR SINK. positive NOTE: The value of this
test lies in the fact that a reaction indicates the presence of an opium derivative, A negative result
does not rule out the possiblity of the sample being a prohibited drug since cocaine, methadone,
demerol, dromoran, etc. do not give positive results with this reagent. A suspected sample that
gives a negative result should be submitted to the laboratory for examination. General Drug
Tests Drugs Test Used Opium Marquis test Heroin Nitric Acid Morphine Nitric Acid Cocaine
Barbiturates Dille-Kopanyi test Cobalt Thiocyanate Color Reaction Purple/Violet Yellow-Green
Red Orange Blue Violet Or the Zwikker test Blue color Amphetamines Marquis test Red/Orange
-Brown LSD Para Amino Benzoic Acid (PABA) Purple Marijuana Duquenois-Levine test Red
Bottom layer Shabu or KN Test Symone's test Purple FIELD DRUG TESTING Field Tests for
Methadone and di-6 dimethylamide-4, 4- This narcotic drug, known also as Amidone, Dolophine
diphenyl-3-heptanone hydrochloride, can be detected in the presence of some other drugs by
employing the reagent and technique as set forth desirable but not essential to the success of the
method, 132 Vice and Drug Education and Control is
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since insoluble substance such as starch, talc, etc. are not blue in color. Reagent: Dissolve 1 gm
of cobalt acetate, nitrate or chloride and 1/5 gm of potassium thiocyanate in 90 ml of water and
10ml of glacial acetic acid. Test: Dissolve the sample in a minimum amount of water, Filter. Add
2 or 3 drops of the reagent to the filtrate. Shake for about 1 minute. A blue precipitate indicates
the presence of methadone. Field Test for Cocaine, Demerol and Methadone This field test for
cocaine, demerol and methadone was developed by the U.S. Customs Laboratory, in Baltimore,
Maryland in 1961 and has been successful use since then. The field test is based on a
modification of the well- known cobalt thiocyanate color test that produces a blue color in the
presence of cocaine. The customs field test is a stable single-solution version of the thiocyanate
test and is the most specific cocaine color test available at this time. The field test is not intended
to replace more specific laboratory determination and should be used only as a preliminary test.
Some non-narcotic substances, such as certain antihistamines, are known to give a color with
cobalt thiocyanate. the The test is simple to perform. The ampul should be broken at the point
where the glass is scored and the powdered sample introduced into the open end of the half of of
cocaine, demerol or methadone give stronger blues than e ampul should NOT BE SHAKEN. A
blue color is indicative that demerol. For each of the three narcotics, the strength of their blue in
the ampuls is proportionate to their active content. The ampul contains a dilute acid and should
be discarded in a place where water can be used to delute the
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Field Tests for Marijuana NOTE: Do not rely on chemical tests alone. Always examine the
material with a microscope or hand lens. Cannabis Sativa, or marijuana, can be quickly and
positively identified by subjecting the sample to the following tests: Microscopic Using a
magnification of approximately 30 diameters, the leaves, small twigs, seed hulls and flowering
tops exhibit characteristics warty appearance due to the presence of non-glandular hairs which
contain a their base called spheriodal cystolith of calcium carbonate. Adding a drop of diluted
hydrochloric acid to the slide and noting the effervescence may show the presence of carbonate.
Many of the cystolithic hairs appear in the shape of bear claws. The seed or fruit, deprived of its
hull, under the same magnification, presents a mottled effect and gives the viewer the impression
he is looking at a hulled coconut or nutmeg. A comparison with an authentic sample is most
desirable. Chemical - The Duquenois-Levine Test has been found to be the only satisfactory
chemical test for the identification of marijuana. The chloroform soluble color developed in this
test is due to the presence of tetrahydrocannbinol (THC) which is the active principal of the
marijuana plant. Reagents - Duquenois Reagent - Dissolve 5 drops of acetaldehyde and 0.4 gm.
of vanillin in 20 ml of 95% ethyl alcohol. (This reagent may be kept for some time in glass-
stoppered bottles in a cool dark place. It should be discarded after it assumes a deep yellow
color). 13 134 Add a pinch of suspected marijuana to a test tube containing about 2 ml (one
teaspoon) Duquenois reagent. Add an equal amount hydrochloric acid. Stir with a glass rod or
shake the (2ml) of concentrated test tube in a circular motion to mix its contents. CAUTION -
Do not splash acid contents on body or clothing. Allow the test tube to stand for 10 minutes, or
until a color develops. Decant the liquid into a second test tube. Add 2ml of chloroform. Stopper
and shake. If marijuana is present, a violet or indigo-violet color will be transferred to the bottom
(chloroform) layer. Vice and Drug Education and Control
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Seeds - When a sample consists entirely of seeds, their identity alone is not sufficient to bring
them within the purview of the law, which requires them to be fertile. To establish their fertility a
number of the seeds should be placed in a suitable container with moist paper pulp or wet
vermiculite, and place in a warm dark place until germination takes place. When reporting a
sample containing marijuana seeds alone, their fertility should always be stated. Field Test for
Amphetamines This field test for identifying amphetamines is useful in screening out caffeine,
vitamins, or other substitutes proffered as amphetamines. Test Material - The test material
consists of 2 or 3 drops of Marquis reagent (2 drops of 37% formaldehyde in 3 ml of
concentrated sulfuric acid) in a small glass ampul. - Test Procedure - Break the ampul at the
scored center and place 1 or 2 drops of the reagent on the sample. This should be done on a glass
ashtray, inverted tumbler, etc. Amphetamines react with the reagent to give a red- orange color,
turning to reddish and then dark brown within 1 or 2 minutes. The reagent gives this
characteristics color reaction when applied to white, pink, yellow, peach or green amphetamine
tablets. it The speed within which the color is formed appears to depend upon the hardness of the
tablet. The red-orange color forms immediately of some tablets while with others appears in 10
to 20 second, Therefore, the critical period of color differentiation for amphetamines is within
the first 20 seconds. The peach-colored caffeine tablet gives a color, which might cause some
confusion. The difference between the color formed by this tablet by this tablet and that formed
by a peach-colored amphetamine tablet are crushed before the reagent is applied. Once the
difference is seen, there should be no trouble in distinguishing one from the other. Amphetamine
onset to reddish brown to dark brown within a couple of powder and tablets - Red-orange
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minutes, Caffeine powder and tablets no color reaction, Methamphetamine and tablets - Red-
orange onset to reddish brown to dark brown in 1 to 2 minutes, Phenyl tertiary butylamine HCI -
Same color change as amphetamines, Wyamine sulfate - Same color change as amphetamines.
Field Test for Barbiturates For the tentative identification of the barbiturates, the Zwikker test is
used. Zwikker Test - An anhydrous methanol solution of the barbiturate upon several drops of
cobalt chloride in methanol solution gives a bluish color, which changes to dark blue upon being
alkalized with a 5% isopropylamine in methanol. The Atkinson Laboratory, 33031 Fierro Street,
Los Angeles, California, manufactures a compact kit that utilized the Zwikker Test. Test
Material The Zwikker Test Kit consists of a small plastic bag containing three solutions in
plastics dropping bottles and small porcelain spot plate. Solution # 1 - Anhydours methanol,
Solution # 2 - Cobalt chloride dissolved in methanol, Solution # 3 - 5% isopropylamine in
methanol. CAUTION: The above solutions are volatile and inflammable. They should be kept
sealed. Test Procedure - The following shall be considered: 1. Place part of sample into spot-
tester, (enough to cover letter "O" on a typewriter key). 2. Put two drops of solution # 1 on
sample in spot- tester. (Sample should dissolve.) 3. Add two drops of solution # 2 (This may
produce a violet or a blue color.) 4. Add tow drops of solution # 3. (If color deepens to a darker
violet of blue, this indicates presumption presence of barbiturate.) The solution will become
contaminated. Wash and dry spot-test plat after use.
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NARCOTIC DEATH INVESTIGATION A common occurrence in the drug culture is the death
of a user. Investigation of a narcotic death is divided into three (3) phases: the SCENE
investigation, the MEDICAL investigation, and the TOXICOLOGICAL investigation. An officer
involved in such a case should determine the manner of death, that is, whether homicide, suicide
or accidental. All of the factors and elements of the scene must be accurately and determining the
cause of death. completely recorded. This will assist the medical examiner in Physiological
Effect of Narcotic Ingestion The ingestion of narcotics or dangerous drugs poisons the body.
This is poisoning effect will leads to a paralysis of the respiratory center or cause heart failure.
This, the, will deny the body a sufficient amount of oxygen. Evident or visible signs, which
remain after death, often accompany the effects of a particular drug on the human body for the
trained observe. These signs are result of symptoms experienced by the victim prior to death.
Following is a partial listing of the more dangerous drugs, the minimum lethal dose, symptoms
and cause of death: Poison Codeine Heroin & Morphine Barbiturates Cocaine Chapter VII: N
Symptoms/Cause of Death Nausea, dizziness, Constipation, Respiratory failure Sweating, loss of
appetite, nausea (Vomiting), Constipation, itching, thirst, cyanosis, respiratory failure lower body
temperature, cyanosis, cold extremities skin rash, constipation, respiratory arrest of pneumonia
nausea, vomiting, chills, sweating, thirst, convulsions, circulatory and respiratory failure 137
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sweating, diarrhea, convulsions, constipation, nausea, vomiting. Amphetamine Chills. cramps,

thirst, petechial hemorrhages The Scene of Death During investigation of the scene, you should
recognize and relate seemingly insignificant items or material, which would justify a conclusion
of narcotic involvement. The following are just some of such items: 1. Paraphernalia (or
"works") - Tools or implements used in administering narcotics. These may include the obvious
syringe and needle, tourniquet, spoon or bottle top "cookies" and tinfoil packet. Also included
are small balls of cotton, capsules and envelopes, and a book of matches. 2. Narcotic Medication
- Laudanum, paregoric, codeine cough syrup, all utilized as "carryovers" until the next fix. 3.
Maalox -Milk of Magnesia - Medication used to relieve nausea, vomiting, constipation, cramps
or diarrhea. 4. Absence of Nutritional Food Loss of appetite is a symptom of poisoning. Presence
of candy or soft drinks indicates low insulin count. — 5. Body Fluids - Presence of urine, feces,
mucus or vomitus on the scene may be evidence of the body attempting to rid itself of poisoned
substance. 6. Clothing or Bed Linens - which may be sweat-stained or soaking wet from the
victim having hot and cold flashes, should be collected and analyzed. 7. Lack of Ordinary
Cleanliness - Dependent user is not concerned in most cases with the environment or health, and
this is shown by a neglect of both. 8. Wet Body - Evidence of body being immersed in tub or
shower, or having ice cubes placed in underclothes or in private parts. It is a common mistake
uses make in thinking this helps in overdose cases. Salt water may also be injected into the
victim. Hospitals use Narcan 138 Vice and Drug Education and
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as antidote. 9. Nylon Stoking - Stretched over a hanger used as sieve. 10. Playing Card - with the
powder, may have been used to "smack" (cut) heroin. The card is usually on top of a record
album or similar. 11. Merchandise - Small items which are easily carried and disposed of after,
being stolen-radios, watches, portable TVs, radios, etc. The Body Signs 1. Cyanosis - bluish
discoloration of the face and /or fingernails due to insufficient oxygenation of the blood caused
by increase in carbon dioxide in the body. 2. Petechial Hemorrhages Pinpoint spots of
discoloration resulting from capability ruptures due to pressure and generally observed in the
eyes, eyelids, behind the ears and internally. 3. Form or Froth - Observed in mouth and nose,
may be white or pinkish and caused by fluids entering the air passages. 4. Hematoma - A
localized swelling on any par to the body caused by bleeding beneath the surface of the skin.
This is caused by "skin popping" rather that vein injections. 5. Needle marks/tracks - Visual
evidence of repeated intravenous injections. The tracks will follow a vein (exception "skin
popping") and result in a dark discoloration and eventual collapse of the vein. 6. Scar - Skin
imperfection caused by the victim in removing needle mark scabs, added to uncleanness of the
victim. 7. Rash/scratched Skin External body signs of morphine or heroin poisoning. 8.
Asphyxia- When it is the cause the death, it is often accompanied by external body changes.
These changes, visible to the naked eye, are not restricted
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to narcotic-related deaths and may be found in other asphyxia deaths, such as hearth attack,
drowning hanging, etc. They must be noted, photographed and reported to the pathologist during
the pre-autopsy interview. Victim's History Historical date on the victim would include his
criminal record (local, national and international and international); medical record (of a private
doctor, hospitals, clinics, etc. and any mental treatment or attempts at suicide); social (relatives,
friends, neighbors, co-workers); marital (past or present); and financial records. When
interviewing users or person possibly involved in narcotics traffic, you should use straight
language rather than attempt street talk because slang constantly changes. You must determine
the extent of decedent's addiction, his familiarity with other drugs, whether he had a steady
source of the drugs or continuously shopped around, and other matters relative to his personal
history. Medical Phase This is the most important stage of the narcotics death investigation.
Since the pathologist will rarely be able to examine the body at the death scene, you should note
every detail, which may be of medico-legal importance and make a complete report on this. that
the following specimens are submitted for narcotics, You should attend the autopsy yourself.
Make sure alcohol or other foreign matter. Heroin is quickly changed to morphine after entering
the body, and clears the blood in approximately 2 hour remains in the urine about 24 hours and
in the bile for 4 days.

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