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Since Oct. 1, scientists at the state forensic lab have been testing all impaired drivers for the presence of multiple drugs, and the results have been startling.
MERIDEN, Conn. — Scientists at the Connecticut Forensic Lab in Meriden are reporting a disturbing new trend they’ve discovered amongst impaired drivers.
Since Oct. 1, the forensic lab has worked with the state Department of Transportation and CT Highway Safety Office to test all impaired driving cases for the presence of drugs.
According to the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, the results have been staggering.
A total of 14% of impaired drivers tested positive for more than 10 drugs, while approximately 50% of them had at least five drugs in their system.
“What stands out is not that this is simply alcohol combined with one drug. We are seeing multiple drugs used together, combined with alcohol,” said Dr. Jessica Gleba, director of Forensic Laboratory Operations with DESPP’s Division of Scientific Services.
She added in a DESPP release last week that an alarming example is carfentanil, a drug that is 100 times more powerful than fentanyl.
“We now see carfentanil, often in combination with other dangerous drugs, in the samples we test,” Gleba said.
Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz noted that the data from the forensics lab highlights the need to promote safe and cautious driving. She said that driving impaired puts everyone at risk.
“This data is a good reminder that we can all do more to take better care of each other, especially on our roads and highways,” Bysiewicz said.
DESPP Commissioner Ronnell Higgins said his team is pleased to stand with its partners with CTDOT as well as local law enforcement. Together they are sending an old but timely message – don’t drive under the influence.
“If you drink, don’t drive. If you use drugs, do not get behind the wheel of a car,” Higgins said. “The work at the forensic lab is providing new insight into the extreme danger from impaired drivers.”
Higgins promised that drunk and drugged driving will not be tolerated in Connecticut. He says there is intense and targeted law enforcement operating along roadways throughout the state at this time of year.
“If you drive while impaired, we will stop you, and we will arrest you,” Higgins said.
Col. Daniel Loughman, commanding officer of the Connecticut State Police, emphasized that impaired driving impacts more than just drivers.
“When someone gets behind the wheel drunk or drugged, they are putting themselves, their passengers and everyone around them at risk,” Loughman said.
With New Year’s Eve quickly approaching, Loughman encouraged residents to have a plan if they intend to drink.
“Use a designated driver, call a ride service or stay where you are,” he said. “If you see emergency responders on the side of the road, slow down and move over.”
Hartford Police Deputy Chief Gabriel Laureano added that people must make smart choices, look out for each other and keep the roads safe.
“We see the consequences of impaired driving firsthand, and they are heartbreaking,” Laureano said. “No celebration is worth a life.”
Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at [email protected].
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