All articles tagged with #drug impairment
San Diego police have started using the portable SoToxa device to quickly test drivers for drugs in the field, allowing for immediate detection of substances like meth, THC, and others, which complements traditional sobriety tests and blood draws, enhancing DUI enforcement efforts.
Federal scientists have demonstrated for the first time that THC can be detected in human breath after consuming cannabis edibles, although results vary widely among individuals and over time, indicating that single breath tests are not definitive proof of recent use or impairment. The study highlights the potential and challenges of using breath analysis for roadside drug testing, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols and multiple measurements to accurately interpret THC levels.
Sahara Dula, a 24-year-old drug safety mentor, intentionally rammed her car into an NYPD officer while high on marijuana, causing the officer to suffer a broken leg and bruising. She admitted to hitting the officer on purpose and was charged with first-degree attempted assault and operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs. The incident occurred as NYPD officers were responding to a nearby smash-and-grab robbery. Despite prior arrests and a history of confrontations, including a previous charge of criminal mischief, Dula's attorney noted her efforts to mentor kids to stay off drugs and her struggles with bipolar disorder. The charges against her have sparked backlash, with some calling for attempted murder charges to be brought against her.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has determined that a fatal hot air balloon crash in New Mexico was caused by a pilot's mistake, who had cocaine and marijuana in his system at the time of the accident. The pilot failed to maintain enough clearance from power lines while attempting to land, resulting in a collision that killed all five people on board. The NTSB found no evidence of mechanical malfunctions. This incident marks the deadliest hot air balloon crash in New Mexico's history and the second deadliest in the US since 2016.