If a BAC is inconsistent with observed impairment, what should the officer contact?

When a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading does not align with the level of impairment observed in a suspect, it raises the possibility that substances other than alcohol may be affecting the individual. In such cases, contacting a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) is crucial because these trained professionals are equipped to assess and identify impairments caused by drugs other than alcohol. They are skilled in conducting evalutations that can determine whether a suspect is under the influence of drugs and what specific substances might be involved.

In situations where the BAC is low but the impairment is significant, a DRE can provide valuable insights and may assist in building a more comprehensive case. Their assessments can also contribute to understanding the overall situation better and ensuring that the appropriate actions are taken based on the findings.

While contacting a supervisor or the district attorney may also be important in various circumstances, particularly for procedural or legal guidance, the immediate step in addressing inconsistencies in BAC readings and observed impairment is to involve a Drug Recognition Expert, making them the most relevant contact in this context.