San Diego, December 28, 2025

The San Diego Police Department has implemented a new on-site drug testing device, the SoToxa Oral Fluid Mobile Test System, to enhance road safety by detecting impaired drivers during traffic stops. Officers can now test for drugs like cannabis and opioids immediately at the scene, allowing for quicker action against potentially dangerous drivers. The use of the device is voluntary, and trained officers, known as Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), will operate them during traffic stops.

San Diego Police Implement On-Site Drug Testing for Drivers

San Diego, CA – The San Diego Police Department has introduced a new on-site drug testing device, the SoToxa Oral Fluid Mobile Test System, to detect impaired drivers during traffic stops. This device allows officers to test for substances such as cannabis, opioids, methamphetamine, and cocaine directly at the roadside, providing results within minutes. The initiative aims to enhance road safety by identifying and removing impaired drivers more efficiently.

Details of the SoToxa Device

The SoToxa device is a portable unit that uses a saliva sample to screen for multiple drugs. It delivers a simple positive or negative result for each substance tested, enabling officers to make informed decisions during traffic stops. The San Diego Police Department acquired five of these units with funding from a state grant supported by taxes on legal cannabis sales. The devices are currently being deployed to officers certified as Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), who have received specialized training to identify impaired drivers.

Operational Procedures

During a traffic stop, officers trained as DREs may request a saliva sample from drivers suspected of impairment. The use of the SoToxa device is voluntary, and drivers can decline without facing immediate penalties. However, if a driver tests positive for drugs, officers may seek a blood sample to confirm the presence of the substance. Blood testing is subject to stricter legal requirements than breath testing, and refusal to provide a blood sample can result in legal consequences. The San Diego Police Department’s procedures for chemical tests, including blood draws, are outlined in their official guidelines.

Background on Drug Recognition Experts

Drug Recognition Experts are law enforcement officers trained to identify individuals whose driving is impaired by drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol. They follow a standardized 12-step procedure called a Drug Influence Evaluation to determine the category of drugs causing impairment. DREs play a crucial role in ensuring impaired drivers are accurately identified and removed from the roads, thereby enhancing public safety.

Implications for Drivers

Drivers in San Diego should be aware that the SoToxa device may be used during traffic stops to test for drug impairment. While participation in the saliva test is voluntary, declining may lead officers to seek alternative evidence of impairment, such as a blood sample. It’s important for drivers to understand their rights and the potential consequences of refusing chemical tests during a DUI investigation.

Conclusion

The San Diego Police Department’s adoption of the SoToxa device represents a significant advancement in roadside drug testing, aiming to improve the detection of impaired drivers and enhance road safety. Drivers are encouraged to be informed about this new procedure and to make responsible decisions to ensure their safety and that of others on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Key Features of the SoToxa Device

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