Meth detector tested in Mo. draws interest

Many police departments throughout country have inquired about a new device meant to detect trace amounts of methamphetamine that iscurrently being tested in Missouri.

According to Malcolm Philips, chief executive officer of CDEX Inc., an Arizona company, the scanner has drawn attention from law enforcement agencies, home inspectors, emergency room doctors, OB-GYNs and private investigators.

The product has been through several rounds of beta testing, the last of which occurred in Missouri by the state highway patrol.

"Our research and development division is working with a company doing some tests," said Lt. Jeff Vitale of Troop E, Poplar Bluff, Mo.

Vitale declined further comment on the testing process.

The scanner works by emitting energy that triggers and isolates particles for analysis. The technology is something that can be tailored to hone in on any controlled substance, from methamphetamine to cocaine to black tar heroin, Philips said.

It was even used on high quality scotch during the first stage of testing, he said.

The device is expected to hit the market within two months and will cost law enforcement agencies $2,000 to $5,500.

The testing and possible applications of the device have sparked controversy statewide about whether the scanner could be used in a way that infringes upon civil rights.

The device could create potential constitutional problems if police are trolling for evidence without a warrant, said Cape Girardeau defense attorney Patrick McMenamin.

CDEX Inc., believes the overall good that will come out of use of the device outweighs the potential for problems.

"A misuse of anything by people in authority has the potential for Fourth Amendment violations, be it a scanner, a pistol or a flashlight," Philips said.

bdicosmo@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 245