DRUG LAWS IN NEW JERSEY: THE FRAILTIES OF THE DUQUENOIS- LEVINE

For over seventy years,  the Duquenois- Levine Test (CDS) has been used as a field test by law enforcement  agents to detected controlled dangerous substance. Recent studies have shown that the DLT can provide a false positive result to eucalyptus, patchouli and cypress as well as Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Kiss and varies other chocolate products.

Another other test known as the KN Reagent Test, which is also used as a field test by law enforcement agents can provide false positives for many herbs including thyme, oregano, anise extract, ginseng,  vanilla and peppermint.

Most good criminal lawyers are aware of the frailties of  these field tests and maintain a careful watch over cases were the underline arrest was precipitated by the use of these test. These types of test should never be allowed into evidence.