A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) is an officer who has been specially trained to conduct an examination on a person to determine if the person is impaired and, if so, whether the impairment is caused by drug use or by a medical condition. This examination is conducted in a controlled environment utilizing a Standardized and Systematic 12 Step Process. The Drug Evaluation and Classification Program (DECP) utilizes a format that has seven categories of drugs. These categories are determined based on the pharmacodynamics of that particular drug category. Pharmacodynamics is the medically known responses of drug use on human physiology. Once the examination is completed the DRE is able to determine which drug category or categories the person has used. Drug Recognition Experts can be used in a variety of ways, from DWI Enforcement to internal investigations.

If you want to schedule a drug awareness class and/or have questions for the DRE Expert, please contact Detective Angie Grotberg at 507-835-9722 or by email at angieg@ci.waseca.mn.us.