Drug Recognition Expert

Officers trained as Drug Recognition Experts are able to conduct intensive, non-invasive, evaluations of subjects suspected to be impaired by a substance other than alcohol. Through this evaluation, the D.R.E. is able to recognize specific types of impairment, and identify one or more categories of drugs impairing a particular individual. In addition, these evaluations can also allow the D.R.E. to determine that the person is not impaired, or simply suffering from a medical issue.

The title of Drug Recognition Expert means that the respective Officer is potentially able to be recognized by the courts as an, “expert witness”. If recognized as such, the officer is able to give his or her professional opinions as opposed to simply stating facts. To date, D.R.E. officers have given testimony in several court proceedings that have resulted in judgements for the state.