| |
Published by the Drug Enforcement Administration
Office of Forensic Sciences Washington, D.C. 20537
The U. S. Attorney General
has determined that the publication of this periodical is necessary in
the transaction of the public business required by the Department of Justice.
Information, instructions, and disclaimers are published in the January
issues.
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
 |
Photo 1 |
SMALL HEROIN DISKS NEAR GREENSBORO, GEORGIA
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Division of Forensic Sciences, Headquarters Laboratory (Atlanta)
recently received five small discs of compacted,
reddish-brown powder, suspected heroin (see Photo 1).
The exhibits were seized near Greensboro by the
Greene County Sheriff’s Office, pursuant to a local
traffic stop (Greensboro is about 75 miles east of
Atlanta). The discs were approximately 9 centimeters
in diameter and between 1.5 and 4.5 centimeters thick.
Analysis of the powder (total net mass 594 grams) by
UV/VIS, HPLC, and GC/MS confirmed heroin (not
quantitated), hydroxyzine, caffeine, O6-monoacetylmorphine,
lidocaine, diphenhydramine, and procaine in
a 40 : 34 : 29 : 22 : 14 : 2.5 : 1 ratio; aspirin and
phenacetin were also identified. This is the first
known submission of heroin in this unusual form, and
also with such an unusual mix of adulterants, to the
laboratory.
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
 |
Photo 2 |
LSD BLOTTER ACID MIMICS CONTAINING 4-CHLORO-2,5-DIMETHOXY-
AMPHETAMINE
(DOC) IN CONCORD, CALIFORNIA
The Contra Costa County Sheriff - Coroner's Office
Forensic Services Division Laboratory (Martinez,
California) recently received a small piece of crudely
lined white blotter paper without any design, suspected
LSD “blotter acid” (see Photo 2). The exhibit was seized
in Concord by the Concord Police Department, pursuant
to a local arrest for possession for sale (no further
details). Unusually, the paper appeared to be hand-lined
using two pens, in squares measuring approximately 6 x
6 millimeters. The paper displayed fluorescence when
irradiated at 365 nanometers; however, color testing for
LSD with para-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (PDMAB)
was negative. Analysis of a methanol extract by GC/MS
indicated not LSD but rather 4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyamphetamine
(DOC, not quantitated but a high loading
based on the TIC). This was the laboratory’s first encounter with DOC in any form.
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
RECENT, UNUSUAL DRUG SUBMISSIONS IN NEW ZEALAND
The Drugs Group at ESR (the National Forensic Laboratory located in Auckland) reports
receiving the following unusual cases during the second quarter of CY 2007 (photos not
available):
A) Heroin that resembled bread crumbs;
B) LSD blotter acid mimics actually containing 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (2C-I);
C) Powders (alleged methamphetamine) that were apparently crushed rock salt containing only trace methamphetamine;
D) An off-white powder (62 grams) identified as morpholine;
E) Blue Ecstasy mimic tablets (Playboy Bunny logo) actually containing a mixture of
diphenylprolinol and benzophenone, along with traces of BZP and TFMPP;
F) Green Ecstasy mimic tablet (raised star logo) actually containing a mixture of methylone,
fluorophenylpiperazine, paracetamol, caffeine, diphenhydramine, and dextromethorphan;
G) Crystal methamphetamine in hair dryers;
H) 4.5 liters of a green liquid identified as 10 percent hash oil in isopropanol (hash oil solutions
in New Zealand are normally about 1 percent concentration);
I) A powder identified as dimethylamphetamine;
J) A brown powder identified as a mixture of BZP, fluorophenylpiperazine, and methylone; and
K) Two powders (13.4 and 9.6 grams) identified as a mixture of paracetamol and atenolol.
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
 |
Photo 3 |
POOR QUALITY METHAMPHETAMINE CONTAINING TRACE CLOBENZOREX
IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA
The Phoenix (Arizona) Police Department Laboratory
Services Bureau recently received 10 plastic bags, each
containing a brown crystalline substance that appeared to
be damp or oily, purported methamphetamine (see Photo
3). The exhibits were seized by U.S. Probation Officers
pursuant to a consent search of a rental truck, and
subsequently turned over to Phoenix Police. The suspect
in the case had voluntarily driven the truck to his
probation office, and indicated that the exhibits were part
of a much larger quantity (allegedly 27 pounds) that he
and a roommate had discovered in an abandoned self-storage
unit that they had won in an auction (location not
provided). A variety of other methamphetamine
processing chemicals were also alleged to be present in
the storage unit (no further details). Analysis of the
substance (total net mass 479 grams in 10 bags) by color
testing (Marquis: Very weak orange color (difficult to discern); nitroprusside: Slow blue color)
and microcrystalline testing (gold chloride: A few distorted crystals) were inconclusive.
Following basic workup, analysis of an ether extract by GC/MS confirmed methamphetamine
(not quantitated, but a rather low concentration) adulterated with trace clobenzorex
((+)-N-(o-chlorobenzyl)-alpha-methylphenethylamine), a diet drug that is banned for use in the U.S.
The cutting agent that made up most of the sample was not identified, but was consistent with
dimethylsulfone. This was the laboratory’s first encounter with an exhibit of this type.
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
DIMETHYLSULFONE CONTAINING LOW CONCENTRATIONS OF FENTANYL
IN MOHAVE COUNTY, ARIZONA
The Arizona Department of Public Safety - Western Regional Crime Laboratory (Lake Havasu
City) recently received three small baggies each containing a white crystalline substance
(combined total net mass 7.22 grams) and one large bag containing a crystalline substance with a
slight greenish tint (total net mass 205.83 grams), all suspected methamphetamine (no photos).
The exhibits were seized by the Ft. Mojave Tribal Police from a residence near Bullhead City
(Mohave County). The materials gave no response to standard color tests. Analysis by FTIR
indicated only dimethylsulfone. Following acid/base workup, analyses of concentrated hexane
and methanol extracts of all subexhibits by color testing (Marquis: Weak orange; nitroprusside:
No response), GC/MS, and UV confirmed fentanyl (not quantified, but a low concentration
based on the TIC). It is unknown why the large subexhibit had a greenish tint. This was the
laboratory's first encounter with dimethylsulfone containing fentanyl.
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
COCAINE BRICKS CONTAINING GLASS MARBLES
ON THE SOUTHWEST BORDER
The DEA Southwest Laboratory (Vista,
California) recently received two separate
exhibits of kilogram bricks of compressed,
off-white powder, suspected cocaine. The
first exhibit consisted of 3 bricks, which were
seized by Immigration and Customs
Enforcement (ICE) personnel from a vehicle
entering at the Tecate Port of Entry (POE);
each brick was packaged in heat-sealed
plastic, tan tape, black carbon paper,
cellophane, yellow grease, a second layer of
cellophane, and a second layer of black
carbon paper. The second exhibit consisted
of 20 bricks, which were seized by ICE
personnel from a vehicle entering at the San
Ysidro POE; each brick was packaged in
heat-sealed plastic, black latex, cellophane,
tan tape, black grease, clear tape, dryer
sheets, and a second layer of cellophane.
Analysis of the first seizure by FTIR,
GC/MSD, and HPLC confirmed 83.3 percent
cocaine hydrochloride. One of the bricks in
this seizure had a logo of three joined rings
with three adjacent stars (see Photo 4), and
was found to contain a single half-dome
shaped glass marble, 15 millimeters in
diameter (see Photo 5; not weighed).
Analysis of the second seizure (same
techniques) confirmed 92.0 percent cocaine
hydrochloride. Two of the bricks in this
seizure had a stylized “TURBO” logo (see
Photo 6), and were each found to contain a
single round glass marble, 15 millimeters in
diameter, both with a mirror finish (see Photo
7; the net mass of each marble was 5.4
grams). The purpose of the marbles is
unknown; however, since three bricks in two
unrelated seizures were found to contain
these unusual objects, it is unlikely that their
inclusion was accidental. These were the first
ever submissions of cocaine bricks to the
Southwest Laboratory that were found to
contain foreign objects of any type.
 |
 |
Photo 5 |
Photo 7 |
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
FENTANYL IN LACTOSE IN ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO
 |
Photo 8 |
The DEA South Central
Laboratory (Dallas, Texas)
recently received two plastic
bags of off-white powder that
did not field test positive for
any common drugs (see Photo
8). The exhibit was seized by
agents from the DEA El Paso
Field Division pursuant to a
search of an individual at the
Albuquerque, New Mexico,
train station (no further
details). Analysis of the powder (total net mass 1.75 kilograms) by GC/MS, NMR, FTIR/ATR,
and HPLC indicated 3.4 percent fentanyl hydrochloride cut with lactose. This is the largest
exhibit of fentanyl hydrochloride ever submitted to the South Central Laboratory.
[Editor’s Note: A similar exhibit (9.8 percent fentanyl cut with lactose) was recently reported by
the DEA Southwest Laboratory; see: Microgram Bulletin 2007;40(4):41.]
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
COCAINE IN FALSE BOTTOM, DOUBLE-WALLED METAL BUCKETS
IN FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
The DEA Southeast Laboratory (Miami, Florida)
recently received seven double-walled, metal
buckets, each with false bottoms containing a
package of white powder, suspected cocaine (see
Photo 9). The exhibits were seized by Customs and
Border Protection personnel from the checked
luggage of a passenger arriving at the Fort
Lauderdale International Airport on a flight from
Haiti. The powders were in plastic bags that were
wrapped in carbon paper. The false bottoms were
fabricated by sealing an inner metal lining to the
outer bucket with what appeared to be a fiberglass
resin, creating a one inch space. Analysis of the
powder (total net mass 2,989 grams) by GC/MS,
FTIR and GC/FID confirmed 78.1 percent cocaine
hydrochloride. This is the first submission of
attempted smuggling in a double-walled bucket to
the Southeast Laboratory.
* * * * *
- INTELLIGENCE ALERT -
HEROIN CONCEALED IN CIGARS IN SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
The DEA Northeast Laboratory (New York, New
York) recently received 33 cigars that were
individually sealed in cellophane sleeves and five
plastic syringe bodies each containing a tan
colored powder, suspected heroin (see Photo 10).
Upon opening and disassembly, 31 of the cigars
also contained plastic syringe bodies containing
the tan colored powder, while two contained
plastic syringes containing an unknown white
powder. The exhibits were originally seized by
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
personnel at the International Airport in San Juan,
Puerto Rico. The original five syringe bodies had
been removed from cigars by ICE personnel prior
to submission. The cigars (and sleeves) had no
brand markings; the syringes appeared to be
melted shut on their needle ends and were
plugged with a small rubber stopper on their
plunger ends. Analysis of the tan colored powder
(total net mass 370.8 grams in 36 syringes) by
GC/FID, GC/MS, LC/MS, and FTIR/ATR,
confirmed 68 percent heroin hydrochloride,
adulterated with lidocaine and thiamine (not
quantitated). Analysis of the white powder in the
two syringes (total net mass 16.3 grams) by
GC/MS and FTIR/ATR indicated only aspirin.
The Northeast Laboratory routinely receives
heroin smuggled in various types of containers
and packaging; however, this is the first known submission of heroin concealed in cigars.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
SELECTED REFERENCES
[The Selected References section is a compilation of recent publications of presumed interest to forensic
chemists. Unless otherwise stated, all listed citations are published in English. Abbreviated mailing
address information duplicates that provided by the abstracting service. Patents and Proceedings are
reported only by their Chemical Abstracts citation number.]
1. Adamczyk A, Sadakierska-Chudy A, Janoszka J, Rymkiewicz A, Dobosz T. Hallucinogenic
fungi (psilocybe). Part II. Identification of Psilocybe semilanceata by PCR. Arch Med
Sadowej Kryminologia 2007;57(3):285. [Editor’s Notes: Presents the title study. This article is
written in Polish. Contact: Z Katedry Medycyny Sadowej i Zakladu Technik Molekularnych
Akademii Medycznej we Wroclawiu Kierownik: dr hab. T. Dobosz, Poland.]
2. Agg KM, Barnett NW, Lewis SW, Pearson JR. Preliminary investigations into
tris(2,2'-bipyridyl) ruthenium (III) as a chemiluminescent reagent for the detection of
3,6-diacetylmorphine (heroin) on surfaces. Journal of Forensic Sciences 2007;52(5):1111.
[Editor’s Notes: The use of tris(2,2'-bipyridyl) ruthenium (III) as chemiluminescent spray reagent
spot-test for heroin is discussed. Two forms of the reagent (aqueous versus anhydrous) were
investigated and found to give very different results. The aqueous reagent gave a slow, low
intensity chemiluminescence, while the anhydrous reagent gave a fast, bright response in the
presence of heroin. However, the anhydrous reagent is less sensitive. Contact: School of Life
and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Vic., Australia.]
3. Bones J, Thomas KV, Paull B. Using environmental analytical data to estimate levels of
community consumption of illicit drugs and abused pharmaceuticals. Journal of
Environmental Monitoring 2007;9(7):701. [Editor’s Notes: A solid phase extraction method
and LC/MS-MS was used for the determination of illicit drugs and abused pharmaceuticals in
treated wastewater and surface water samples at the ng L-1 level. The procedure was used to
determine the chosen analytes in wastewater treatment plants in Dublin, Ireland and surrounding
suburbs. Cocaine was detected in 70% of the collected samples in the range of 25 - 489 ng L-1,
and benzoylecgonine in the range of 22 - 290 ng L-1. Other substances detected included
morphine, Temazepam and the primary metabolite of methadone. Contact: National Centre for
Sensor Research, School of Chemical Science, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ire.]
4. Bouchonnet S, Kinani S, Sablier M. Does the reagent gas influence collisional activation
when performing in situ chemical ionization with an ion trap mass spectrometer? European
Journal of Mass Spectrometry 2007;13(3):223. [Editor’s Notes: Substrates included alprazolam,
diazepam, flunitrazepam, and acetaminophen. Contact: Departement de Chemie des Mecanismes
Reactionnels, Ecole Polytechnique, Route de Saclay, 91128 Palaiseau Cedex, France.]
5. Bouchonnet S, Kinani S, Sablier M, Pirnay S. In situ chemical ionization in ion trap mass
spectrometry - The beneficial influence of isobutane as a reagent gas. European Journal of
Mass Spectrometry 2007;13(3):227. [Editor’s Notes: Same four substrates (see preceding
citation). Contact: Departement de Chemie des Mecanismes Reactionnels, Ecole Polytechnique,
Route de Saclay, 91128 Palaiseau Cedex, France.]
6. Cook E, Fong R, Horrocks J, Wilkinson D, Speller R. Energy dispersive X-ray diffraction as a
means to identify illicit materials: A preliminary optimization study. Applied Radiation and
Isotopes 2007;65(8):959. [Editor’s Notes: Presents the use of energy dispersive x-ray
diffraction as a nondestructive method to rapidly identify illicit drugs in parcels. Seven illicit
drug samples and a possible cutting agent were analyzed, and the results used to calibrate and
train software to predict drug content in previously unseen spectra. Contact: Department of
Medical Physics and Bioengineering, UCL, London, UK WC1E 6BT.]
7. Deng C, Zhang L, Guo H. Nucleophilic addition of N-methylhydroxylamine and
O-methylhydroxylamine to 2-nitryl-1-phenylpropene. Wujing Yixueyuan Xuebao
2006;15(4):308. [Editor’s Notes: The title duplicates that provided by the abstracting service; it
appears likely that the actual title compound is 2-nitro-1-phenylpropene. The title study is
presented. The products were isolated by HPLC, and their structures were verified by 1H-NMR.
The yield of products implied that the nucleophilic addition of N-methylhydroxylamine to
unsaturated nitro compounds gave stereoselectivity. This article is written in Chinese. Contact:
Department of Continuing Education, Medical College of Chinese People's Armed Police Force,
Tianjin 300162, Peop. Rep. China.]
8. Fierro I, Deban L, Pardo R, Tascon M, Vazquez D. Analysis of heavy metals in ecstasy tablets
by electrochemical methods. Toxicological and Environmental Chemistry 2007;89(3):411.
[Editor’s Notes: Trace heavy metals were analyzed by electrochemical techniques in Ecstasy
tablets obtained from 9 different police seizures made in Spain. Lead, cadmium, copper, and zinc
were determined by differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry at a hanging mercury drop
electrode, whereas nickel and cobalt were determined by adsorptive differential pulse cathodic
stripping voltammetry from their dimethylglyoxime complexes. The results were compared with
electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. Contact: Departamento de Quimica Analitica,
Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid 470005, Spain.]
9. Lasmar MC, Leite EMA. Development and validation of a gas chromatography method for
the determination of ecstasy and amphetamine derivatives in tablets. Revista Brasileira de
Ciencias Farmaceuticas 2007;43(2):223. [Editor’s Notes: Uses GC/FID for analysis of MDMA,
MDA, and MDEA in tablets. This article is written in Portugese. Contact: Setor de Toxicologia,
Departamento de Analises Clinicas e Toxicologicas, Faculdade de Farmacia, Universidade
Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil.]
10. Milhazes N, Martins P, Uriarte E, Garrido J, Calheiros R, Marques MPM, Borges F. Electrochemical and spectroscopic characterization of amphetamine-like drugs:
Application to the screening of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and its
synthetic precursors. Analytica Chimica Acta 2007;596(2):231. [Editor’s Notes: Presents the
physicochemical characterization of MDMA and its synthetic precursors MDA, 3,4-methylenedioxybenzaldehyde
(piperonal) and 3,4-methylenedioxy-beta-methyl-beta-nitrostyrene, as carried
out through voltammetric assays and Raman spectroscopy combined with theoretical (DFT)
calculations. In addition, the rational synthesis of MDMA from MDA is reported. Several
approaches for the N-methylation of MDA were attempted and the results compared. Contact:
CEQOFFUP, Faculdade de Farmacia, Universidade do Porto, Oporto, Port. 4050-047.]
11. Rosner P, Junge T, Westphal F, Fritschi G. Mass Spectra of Designer Drugs, Including Drugs,
Chemical Warfare Agents, and Precursors, Volume 1-2, Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH Co. KGaA:
Weinheim, 2007. [Reference Text - See Journal of the American Chemical Society
2007;129(38):11873.]
12. Salehi P, Sonboli A, Zavareh AF, Sefidkon F, Dayeni M, Cheraghi B. Narcotic alkaloids of
four Papaver species from Iran. Zeitschrift für Naturforschung C 2007;62(1-2):16. [Editor’s
Notes: Papaver glaucum, Papaver tenuifolium, Papaver dubium, and Papaver fugax were
analyzed for morphine, codeine, and thebaine, using HPLC. The language of this article was not
specified in the abstract. Contact: Department of Phytochemistry, Medicinal Plants and Drugs
Research Institute, Shahid Behesti University, Evin, P.O. Box 19835-389, Tehran, Iran.]
13. Sanderson K. Opiates for the masses. Nature 2007;449(7160):268. [Editor’s Notes: A
conversational overview, focusing on the current situation in Afghanistan. Contact: No contact
information was provided.]
14. Takekawa K, Ohmori T, Kido A, Oya M. Methamphetamine body packer: Acute poisoning
death due to massive leaking of methamphetamine. Journal of Forensic Sciences
2007;52(5):1219. [Editor’s Notes: Three body packers were involved; one died. Impurity profiling
analysis of the seized methamphetamine (technique(s) not reported in the abstract)
indicated that all three batches originated from the same source. Contact: Forensic Science
Laboratory, Yamanashi Prefectural Police Headquarters 312-4 Kubonakajima, Isawa,
Fuefuki-shi, Yamanashi 406-0036, Japan.]
15. Wan Z, Wan Z. Test paper comprising colloidal gold-labeled and immobilized antibodies for
rapidly determination of phencyclidine. (Patent) Chemical Abstracts 2007;147:380999e.
16. Wan Z, Wan Z. Test paper comprising colloidal gold-labeled mouse monoclonal antibody
and immobilized goat anti-mouse IgG polyclonal antibodies for detn. of amphetamine. (Patent) Chemical Abstracts 2007;147:381000j.
17. Wang G, Shen J, Jia Y. Vibrational spectra of ketamine hydrochloride and
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine in terahertz range. Journal of Applied Physics
2007;102(1):013106/1. [Editor’s Notes: The results suggest that the use of the terahertz TDS
technique can be an effective method for the detection of illicit drugs. Contact: Department of
Physics, Capital Normal University, Beijing, Peop. Rep. China 100037.]
18. Witter RZ, Martyny JW, Mueller K, Gottschall B, Newman LS. Symptoms experienced by law
enforcement personnel during methamphetamine lab investigations. Journal of Occupational
and Environmental Hygiene 2007;4:895. [Editor’s Notes: Based on responses (# = 240) to a
standardized, self-administered survey. Includes extensive discussion. Contact: National Jewish
Medical and Research Center, Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences,
1400 Jackson St., Denver, CO 80206.]
19. Yang J, Bian, S-z. A reviewing for abusing of ketamine. Fayixue Zazhi 2007;23(4):312.
[Editor’s Notes: The title duplicates that provided by the abstracting service; it appears likely it
should be “A review of ketamine abuse” or similar. Presents a review of the pharmacology and
toxicolology of ketamine, and the methods for its detection. This article is written in Chinese.
Contact: Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou
215123, Peop. Rep. China.]
Additional References of Possible Interest:
1. Anonymous. WHO expert committee on specifications for pharmaceutical preparations. World Health Organization Technical Report Series 2006;937(i-x):1. [Editor’s Notes: A review,
presenting the recommendations of an international group of experts convened by the World
Health Organization (WHO) to consider matters concerning the quality assurance of
pharmaceuticals and specifications for drug substances and dosage forms. Contact: World
Health Organization, Geneva, Switz. (no further addressing information was provided).]
2. Anonymous. WHO expert committee on specifications for pharmaceutical preparations. World Health Organization Technical Report Series 2007;943(i-xi):1. [Editor’s Notes: A
review, presenting the recommendations provided by the World Health Organization (WHO)
Expert Committee to help national and regional authorities (in particular drug regulatory
authorities) and procurement agencies, as well as major international bodies and institutions, such
as the Global Fund, and international organizations such as UNICEF, to combat problems of
counterfeit and substandard medicines. Contact: WHO Expert Committee, Switz. (no further
addressing information was provided).]
3. Eliasson C, Matousek P. Spatial offset broadens applications for Raman spectroscopy. Laser
Focus World 2007;43(5):123. [Editor’s Notes: A review, covering the detection of counterfeit
drugs and the security screening of envelopes. Contact: CCLRC Rutherford Appleton
Laboratory, Central Laser Facility, Didcot, Oxfordshire, UK OX11 0QX.]
4. Huhn C. Optimization of Sample Injection and Separation Using Capillary Electrophoresis,
Micellar Electrokinetic Chromatography and the Column-Coupling
Isotachophoresis-Capillary Electrophoresis for the Analysis of Complex Samples in
Forensic Science. (Dissertation) Chemical Abstracts 2007:1192562.
5. Mukhopadhyay R. Out! Catching doping athletes. Analytical Chemistry 2007;79(15):5522.
[Editor’s Notes: A review of sports doping by athletes and the methods used to detect
performance enhancing drugs. Contact: USA (no further information was provided).]
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
1) The DEA Office of Forensic Sciences has posted the following chemist vacancy announcements:
Four (4) Chemist positions, DEA Mid-Atlantic Laboratory (Largo, Maryland); Job
Announcement Number: F-DEA-MIDATL-08-0012-DEU
Three (3) Chemist positions, DEA Western Laboratory (San Francisco, California); Job
Announcement Number: F-DEA-WEST-08-0014-DEU
Each announcement is posted on www.usajobs.gov and will close on January 4, 2008. If you have any
questions, please call the Office of Forensic Sciences at: 202-307-3635.
* * * * *
2) Position: Assistant Drug Chemist and Forensic Drug Chemist (Third and Final Posting)
Location: Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, Forensic Laboratory, Jersey City, NJ.
Salary: Commensurate with Experience.
Application Deadline: Open until Filled.
Duties and Responsibilities: The successful candidate will independently carry out examinations of
suspected controlled dangerous substances submitted by various law enforcement agencies in connection
with criminal investigations and prosecutions using chemical and instrumental analyses. Responsibilities
include: Utilize GC/MS and FTIR instruments; interpret chromatographic data; carry out wet chemical
analyses; perform peer review of case files; maintain essential laboratory equipment, instruments, records
and files; prepare certified laboratory reports; testify in federal, state and municipal courts; and perform
other related duties as assigned. The applicant must have the ability to communicate well and work
closely with laboratory, legal and administrative personnel; have a working knowledge of computer
software, databases and word processing; and have knowledge of Quality Control/Assurance principles.
Qualifications: A minimum of a B.S. degree in forensic science or chemistry or a physical science with at
least twenty-four (24) semester hours in chemistry. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of one-year
experience analyzing controlled substances.
Contact: DLT. Roger Forsthoff, Director
HCPO Forensic Laboratory
rforsthoff -at- hcpo.org (201/915-1309)
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Microgram Surface Mail Address Change
On October 12th, 2007 the address for “hard” mailings to the Microgram Editor was changed to:
DEA Headquarters
Attn: Office of Forensic Sciences/Microgram Editor
8701 Morrissette Drive
Springfield, VA 22152
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Microgram email Address Changes
Effective January 1st, 2008 the email address for the Microgram Editor will be:
DEA-Microgram-2008 -at- mailsnare.net
The current email address ( microgram-2007 -at- mailsnare.net ) will be monitored until
January 31st, 2008. An automated response will direct senders to the new address until April
1st, 2008, at which point the account will lapse.
Important Notes to All Subscribers: All subscribers with filters on their accounts should
immediately “whitelist” the DEA-Microgram-2008 -at- mailsnare.net email address. In addition, it
is recommended that the current and previous email addresses used for Microgram ( microgram-
2007 -at- mailsnare.net (and) microgram_editor -at- mailsnare.net ) be automatically filtered
(blocked) after January 1st, 2008. They will no longer be used by Microgram after this date;
therefore, any subsequent emails from these addresses will be spam - note that the Microgram email addresses are already routinely “hijacked” and used to send spam, and this fraudulent use
will continue and likely will increase in future years (it is not possible for the Microgram Editor
to prevent or control this problem).
All subscribers should notify their IT security personnel of all the above changes.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
| 2007 Subject Index (Alphabetical) |
Vol. |
No. |
Page |
| “Bromo Dragonfly” (Bromo-Benzodifuranyl-Isopropylamine) |
40 |
8 |
78 |
| “Cheese” Heroin |
40 |
6 |
60 |
| “Ganja Butter” |
40 |
8 |
77 |
| “Ganja Butter” |
40 |
7 |
66 |
| 2C-E Capsules |
40 |
4 |
38 |
| Amphetamine, Clandestine Laboratory, Using the Nitropropene Route |
40 |
7 |
68 |
| Benzylmethylamine HCl and Benzylethylamine HCl, as “Ice” Mimics |
40 |
8 |
79 |
| Bromo-Benzodifuranyl-Isopropylamine (“Bromo Dragonfly”) |
40 |
8 |
78 |
| BZP/TFMPP Tablets (“Flying Star” and “Red Dragon”) |
40 |
9 |
87 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in a Large Block of Wax |
40 |
1 |
2 |
| Cocaine and Heroin, Smuggled in Trailer Hitches |
40 |
4 |
42 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in Electric Guitars |
40 |
1 |
3 |
| Cocaine Bricks Containing Small Marbles |
40 |
12 |
112 |
| Cocaine, Heavily Adulterated with Creatine |
40 |
10 |
94 |
| Cocaine, Sham |
40 |
7 |
69 |
| Cocaine, Solution, Very Large Volume, Smuggled on the Emperador |
40 |
11 |
100 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in Designer Boat Shoes |
40 |
11 |
102 |
| Cocaine Brick with Small White Specs |
40 |
7 |
68 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in Laminated Recipe Sheets |
40 |
10 |
93 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in Double-Walled Metal Buckets |
40 |
12 |
113 |
| Cocaine, Impregnated in a Hard Rubber Matrix |
40 |
5 |
51 |
| Cocaine Mimic Bricks (Actually Containing Lidocaine and Mannitol) |
40 |
5 |
52 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in Cowboy Boots |
40 |
3 |
34 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in a Wooden Stand |
40 |
5 |
51 |
| Cocaine, Smuggled in (Possibly) a Plastic Bottle Stopper |
40 |
3 |
35 |
| Cocaine, Brown, Smuggled in a Hammock Chair |
40 |
4 |
40 |
| Computer Corner #213 - Who is Qualified to Conduct Forensic Examinations, Part I |
40 |
1 |
11 |
| Computer Corner #214 - Who is Qualified to Conduct Forensic Examinations, Part II |
40 |
2 |
27 |
| Computer Corner #215 - Sufficiency of Examination |
40 |
4 |
47 |
| Computer Corner #216 - Carving - A Lesson Learned |
40 |
5 |
56 |
| Dimethcathinone, Very Large Seizure |
40 |
8 |
81 |
| Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) Clandestine Laboratory |
40 |
7 |
65 |
| DOB in LSD Blotter Acid Mimics |
40 |
2 |
24 |
| DOC, Solution, Smuggled in a Mini-Bottle of Breath-Freshener |
40 |
10 |
93 |
| DOC in LSD Blotter Acid Mimics |
40 |
12 |
110 |
| DOC, Solution, Smuggled in Mini-Bottles of Breath-Fresheners |
40 |
4 |
42 |
| DOI, Solution |
40 |
9 |
89 |
| Ecstasy Combination Tablets (Containing Ketamine, Procaine, and MDMA) |
40 |
5 |
50 |
| Ecstasy Mimic Tablets (Containing Ketamine and Methamphetamine) |
40 |
2 |
19 |
| Ecstasy Tablets Containing Glitter |
40 |
4 |
37 |
| Ecstasy Mimic Tablets (Containing BZP, Methamphetamine, and Caffeine) |
40 |
10 |
91 |
| Ecstasy Mimic Tablets (Containing mCPP) |
40 |
4 |
39 |
| Ecstasy Mimic Tablets (Containing Heroin, Cocaine, and Caffeine) |
40 |
9 |
88 |
| Ecstasy Mimic Tablets (Containing N-(2,4,6-Trimethylphenyl)phthalimide) |
40 |
2 |
20 |
| Ecstasy Mimic Tablets (Containing Ketamine, Methamphetamine, and Dimethylsulfone) |
40 |
3 |
32 |
| Ecstasy Tablets Containing Glitter |
40 |
6 |
57 |
| Ecstasy Combination Tablets, Unusually Shaped, Containing MDMA, Methamphetamine, Caffeine, Procaine, and MDP2P-ol |
40 |
9 |
85 |
| Ecstasy Combination Tablets (Containing MDMA and Procaine) |
40 |
5 |
50 |
| Ecstasy Combination Tablets (4 Different Types, Containing MDMA and Various Other Drugs) |
40 |
8 |
80 |
| Ecstasy Tablets Containing Glitter |
40 |
3 |
30 |
| Ecstasy Tablets, Very Large Seizure, Including Fakes |
40 |
7 |
67 |
| Fentanyl, Cut with Lactose |
40 |
4 |
41 |
| Fentanyl, Cut with Lactose |
40 |
12 |
113 |
| Fentanyl, Low Percent, on Dimethylsulfone |
40 |
12 |
111 |
| Heroin and Alprazolam Capsules |
40 |
3 |
31 |
| Heroin Bricks |
40 |
3 |
33 |
| Heroin, Laced into Bolts of Cloth |
40 |
4 |
41 |
| Heroin, Smuggled in Sandals |
40 |
7 |
67 |
| Heroin, “Cheese” |
40 |
6 |
60 |
| Heroin Disks |
40 |
12 |
109 |
| Heroin, Smuggled in Shoes (Shaped as Insoles) |
40 |
5 |
49 |
| Heroin, Unusually Shaped Pellets Resembling Small Cylinders, Encased in Hard Plastic |
40 |
9 |
86 |
| Heroin, Smuggled as the Backing of a Large, Wooden-Framed Picture |
40 |
11 |
101 |
| Heroin, Smuggled in Syringes Inside Cigars |
40 |
12 |
114 |
| Heroin, Trace, in Caffeine/Lidocaine Mixtures |
40 |
2 |
22 |
| Heroin and Cocaine, Smuggled in Trailer Hitches |
40 |
4 |
42 |
| Heroin, Smuggled as Solutions in Juice Boxes |
40 |
2 |
22 |
| Heroin, Black Tar |
40 |
6 |
59 |
| Heroin, Pellets, Smuggled in Packages of Cookies |
40 |
6 |
58 |
| Heroin, Smuggled in Motorcycle Helmets |
40 |
8 |
81 |
| Heroin, Smuggled in Candies |
40 |
10 |
92 |
| Heroin, Smuggled in Toiletries |
40 |
3 |
34 |
| Ketamine, Very Large Seizure of Pharmaceutical Grade Material |
40 |
11 |
102 |
| Khat |
40 |
6 |
60 |
| LSD in Sugar Cubes |
40 |
7 |
66 |
| LSD, Solution, Smuggled in a Vodka Bottle |
40 |
4 |
40 |
| Marijuana, “Ganja Butter” |
40 |
7 |
66 |
| Marijuana, “Ganja Butter” |
40 |
8 |
77 |
| Methamphetamine, Mexican Super Lab Using Tartaric Acid Resolution |
40 |
1 |
2 |
| Methamphetamine, Poor Quality, Also Containing Trace Clobenzorex |
40 |
12 |
111 |
| Methamphetamine, “Ice,” Very Large Seizure |
40 |
2 |
23 |
| Methamphetamine, Crystal, Mixed into Cotton Balls |
40 |
3 |
29 |
| Methamphetamine, “Ice,” Large Seizures Along the Mexico/Texas Border |
40 |
2 |
24 |
| Methamphetamine, “Ice,” Very Large Crystals |
40 |
5 |
52 |
| Methamphetamine, “Ice,” Smuggled in a Mini-Purse/Key Chain |
40 |
9 |
88 |
| Opium, Smuggled in Attache Cases |
40 |
1 |
4 |
| Opium Poppy Pods, Dried |
40 |
1 |
4 |
| ortho-Methoxyphenylpiperazine (OMPP) |
40 |
4 |
39 |
| Oxycontin, Solution |
40 |
8 |
79 |
| Phentermine, Counterfeit Tablets (Actually Containing Acetaminophen) |
40 |
6 |
58 |
| Polydrug Seizure (LSD, 2C-I, 2C-E, MDMA, 1,4-BD, Oxycodone) |
40 |
2 |
20 |
| Quaalude Lemmon 714 Mimic Tablets (Intelligence Brief) |
40 |
1 |
5 |
| Recent Drug Submissions in New Zealand |
40 |
12 |
110 |
| Sodas Mixed with Cough Syrup (Containing Codeine and Promethazine) |
40 |
3 |
32 |
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