Attleboro Police Chief Kyle Heagney says it’s about time for random drug testing on cops. The latest incident that plagued Attleboro Police wherein a “rogue cop” was able to get hold of drugs kept in the evidence room could have been prevented if only random drug testing was done on cops too.
This is why the chief is calling upon concerned authorities to make sure the incident does not happen again. Under the state laws, drug testing for cops can only be done if it is included in the police union contracts. Most of the time, this does not happen, which gives police officers the freedom to be drug test-free.
“The unions are going to step up and pressure them not to make any changes, but this is proof why we need it. I think we owe it to our citizens that police officers are drug tested,” Police Chief Heagney said.
Heagney assumed his position last August and immediately made an audit after reports reached him that narcotics such as cocaine and others of the same kind were missing. He has ordered that only one officer hold the key to the evidence room, and anyone who enters the area should swipe an electronic ID. Surveillance cameras will also be strategically placed in the said area.
At present, talks between the police union and the Attleboro department on drug testing policies are in place. Attorney Leigh Panettiere, who represents the union, says their group isn’t totally against drug testing. It’s just that the union and the city have not reached any amicable decision with regards to the issue, thus the policy hasn’t been given the go signal.
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