Cannabis Impairment Detection By Dirigo Safety, LLC
Cannabis Impairment Detection Lab
Date: November 12, 2026
Time: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Dirigo Safety, LLC, 95 Main Street, Auburn, ME 04210
Cost: Free for Maine Law Enforcement Officers (sponsored by OCP); $300.00 for Non-Maine LEOs
Registration Deadline: October 26th
Instructors: Scot Mattox, Esq. and Seth Allen
Overview:
As cannabis products continue to evolve with increasingly potent THC concentrations and diverse consumption methods—including edibles, concentrates, and traditional flower—law enforcement officers must develop enhanced skills to recognize impairment in drivers. This comprehensive two-part training combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on experience to equip officers with the knowledge and techniques necessary to identify cannabis-related impairment effectively. Participants will explore current cannabis market trends, relevant legal frameworks, observable behavioral indicators, and specialized field sobriety testing procedures designed specifically for cannabis detection. The training culminates in a controlled "Green Lab" component where officers perform real-world impairment evaluations on individuals under the influence, allowing them to apply and reinforce their classroom learning through direct observation and practice.
Course Objectives:
- Distinguish between various forms of modern cannabis products and comprehend their impairment effects
- Implement advanced SFST protocols specifically designed for identifying cannabis impairment
- Recognize critical behavioral markers and visible physical manifestations of THC-related impairment
- Master documentation strategies for cannabis-impaired driving cases and strengthen courtroom presentation
- Execute practical impairment evaluations during the hands-on Green Lab, assessing assessment reliability and technique proficiency
Equipment Requirements: No special equipment needed. Please note that duty weapons are not permitted during this course.
Important Note: Attendees will not be exposed to cannabis or any other controlled substances during the training.
Class Categories: Law Enforcement, Other: EMS, EMA, Fire, Park Rangers, Prosecutors/DAs
Class Tags: Fundamentals, Investigative, Specialized