Can operational field-testing of bath salts contribute to forensic science cases?

Peter M. Boffelli Jr.
LSCJ 4123 Introduction to Forensic Science
Unit #3 Course Spanning Project
Dr. Heather Ketchum PhD.
University of Oklahoma
December 2, 2012

“I certify that this paper is an original paper composed by me for this course. Except where properly cited and attributed, it has not been copied or closely paraphrased from any other source and has not been submitted as a whole, or in part, for credit in any other course at OU or any other educational institution. It has not been created or submitted for any other purpose such as a job assignment at my workplace or any other agency.”

Title
Can operational field-testing of bath salts contribute to forensic science cases?
Topical Outline
Title Page 1) Introduction a. Origin of Synthetic Cathinones b. Origin of “Bath Salts” c. Statement of problem i. Synthetic Cathinones are commonly referred to as “Bath Salts” on the street. This substance is considered “legal” on the open market, but has a reputation to provide a euphoric high similar to ketamine and amphetamines. At the present time there are no “proven” field-testing procedures for the substances. When and if a testing protocol is developed, will it assist in forensic science cases? d. Significance of the study ii. This paper will assist the reviewer with basic information in the origin of synthetic cathinones as well as develop insight on why a testing protocol is needed to assist forensic science in proving or disproving an investigation. e. Assumptions iii. Operational field-testing is being developed as a positive for protocol development in forensic science cases. iv. Operational field-testing is being developed, but will have a negative impact on the development of protocols in forensic science cases. 2) Background f. Review of related literature v. Internet based websites, articles and research papers vi. Personal knowledge as well as developed skill set in the processing, investigation and supervision of numerous narcotics buy programs and search warrant investigations for synthetic cathinones. 3) Methodology g. Type of research vii. Internet-based websites, articles and research papers viii. Personal knowledge as well as developed skill set in the processing, investigation and supervision of numerous narcotics buy programs and search warrant investigations for synthetic cathinones. h. Discussion ix. Characteristics of synthetic cathinones and bath salts. x. Characteristics of illegal Schedule 1 drug MDPV. xi. An example for the necessity of a field-testing procedure for synthetic cathinones xii. Development of field-testing protocols for the benefit of lab and field investigations into synthetic cathinones. 4) Conclusion i. Summary of results and findings xiii. Adequately describe in the writer’s own opinion his belief that a positive operational field-testing protocol for synthetic cathinones is near. j. Overall conclusion xiv. Provide research proving the ability to bring an operational field-testing protocol for synthetic cathinones will occur. 5) Bibliography
Introduction
The introduction of synthetic cathinones began in the mid 2000’s. Drug abusers were looking for a designer drug type that would be considered legal, but also give the same euphoric response to the abuser. They discovered synthetic cathinones; which are derived from the Khat plant and is found in Africa. This new type of “high” dubbed “Bath Salts” on the street has captured the attention of the world. It has been found in abundance throughout Europe as well as the United States. Poison Control Centers and emergency rooms have seen an increase since the middle of the decade on patients who