Developing a Strategy for a Multiagency Response to Clandestine Drug Laboratories

• NCJ Number: 142643
• Date Published: June 1993
• Length: 143 pages
• Publication Series: BJA Monographs
• Agencies: BJA
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Description

Annotation

In 1987, the Bureau of Justice Assistance funded demonstrations by five law enforcement agencies to develop and implement clandestine laboratory enforcement programs (CLEPs); the models illustrated the importance of designing a multidisciplinary approach to clandestine laboratory enforcement.

Abstract

Because laboratories used to produce illicit drugs often house highly toxic, corrosive, and explosive chemicals, CLEPs must address several fundamental safety, environmental, and health issues: selecting appropriate safety equipment, including respirators, and assuring that officers use them; establishing and maintaining a medical screening and surveillance program for these officers; and determining how cleanup costs will be shared among the affected agencies. In addition, the multidisciplinary approach to CLEPs includes these components: a strategy planning team, interagency agreements, personnel and training, precursor chemical monitoring, and community education and awareness. The five steps involved in implementing an effective CLEP are mission formulation, organizational assessment, objectives development, action plan development, and implementation. Using this monograph, program planners will have an understanding of existing laws, policies, and procedures that may impact program developments, a training plan and communication strategy, a plan for identifying program resources, and an approach for obtaining program support within the department and other agencies. 10 appendixes and 45 references