Be aware of these techniques when searching suspects for narcotics. Suspects often coat cocaine and meth pipes with the drugs for later consumption, scraping off what they need as they go. In California, getting caught with the pipe is a misdemeanor, but getting caught with the drug is a felony. Many officers don’t bother inspecting the pipe. The Police1 member who submitted this tip scrapes the drug off of the pipe with a paperclip and then charges the suspect with both crimes.
“Skin Melts” have also been appearing frequently. Dealers are selling heroin melted onto tin foil. When the suspect is searched and the foil is found, it appears as though the heroin has already been smoked, leaving the usual skid marks on the foil. Upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that there are substantial quantities of the drug on the foil.
Police1 note: Be sure to check the laws in your area to see what you will need to get a conviction in court. Source: Police1 Member Submissions