Gordon Graham
Category: Law Enforcement

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. And Today’s Tip is for my friends in law enforcement.

Consider carefully whether the use of CBD products and the testing pitfalls are worth risking your job or your credibility.

This job can be hard on the body. Our backs suffer from too much sitting in the patrol vehicle. The weight of duty belts and physically wrestling with uncooperative subjects takes a toll. The assorted sprains, strains, and broken bones throughout our careers can lead to arthritis, muscle pain, and other chronic pain. Trust me. I know these things.

We don’t want to get addicted to prescription opioids for pain. But what about using CBD products instead? Let’s talk about what law enforcement officers should consider before using CBD products.

First, although CBD products may be advertised as THC-free, or free of the properties that cause a high, controls on the ingredients contained in these products are often not standardized. This means you risk potentially putting additives into your body that you never intended to.

This brings me to point two: While many states have legalized marijuana to various degrees, remember, marijuana remains illegal under federal law. And agency policies may be more restrictive than local laws because drugs or alcohol could impair the ability of law enforcement personnel to safely and completely perform their duties.

Now, apply these two points to a common scenario. What if you are involved in a motor vehicle collision or discharge a firearm in the performance of your duties? Policy will likely require you submit to a drug or alcohol screening test. What if that test comes back positive for THC? Remember, when it’s all said and done, you are responsible for what you put in your body. Regardless of your motives when doing so.

Consider carefully whether the use of CBD products and the testing pitfalls are worth risking your job or your credibility. Check with your agency and your agency’s policy and make an informed decision before using any CBD products.

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Gordon Graham signing off.