Delco Gets Drug-Sensing Laser Device To Safely ID Substances

HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA – Emergency responders in Delaware County have a new tool that will help them identify hazardous substances without dangerous exposure to potentially harmful materials.

On Wednesday, Delaware County District Attorney Jack Whelan, Delaware County Council, and Haverford Township Police Chief John Viola unveiled a laser narcotics detection machine, known as the Progeny™ ResQ™ 1064nm handheld Raman analyzer, which can identify dangerous opioids, such as carfentanil, so first responders do not have to come in contact with the drugs.

The device is available to local Delco police departments as part of the Criminal Investigation Division Crime Scene and Bomb Squad Unit.

The new handheld tool gives users the ability to detect explosive threats quickly and accurately, identify a wide range of narcotics and illegal drugs, and respond to suspicious hazardous materials that risk public safety.

With reports of carfentanil showing up in bordering counties and the Philadelphia area, county officials are taking preventive steps and extra measures to protect first responders and police from exposure to the extremely deadly drug which can result in accidental overdose and even death.

Watch county and local officials discuss the new tool in the video below: