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Fentanyl Detection One Focus Of Crime Lab Convention

This synthetic marijuana was shipped from China in a cat food bag.
Ann Thompson
/
WVXU
This synthetic marijuana was shipped from China in a cat food bag.

Forensic scientists are starting to use a new instrument that can detect synthetic drugs at the nanogram level. That's important, according to Hamilton County Coroner's Crime Lab Director Michael Trimpe, because "Someone doesn't have to take very much before they die. That's why we're having  all these overdose deaths."

Fentanyl and carfentanil detection is one focus of the combined meeting of the Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists, the Southern Association of Forensic Scientists and the American Society of Trace Evidence Examiners this week in Cincinnati.

Approximately 500 people are expected to attend.

Trimpe says the seminars run the gamut. "Anything from a chemistry refresher to DNA quality to expert witness testimony."

He says the groups will even discuss problems with marijuana legislation.

The conference runs through Friday at the Westin Hotel.

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With more than 30 years of journalism experience in the Greater Cincinnati market, Ann Thompson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her reporting. She has reported for WKRC, WCKY, WHIO-TV, Metro Networks and CBS/ABC Radio. Her work has been recognized by the Associated Press and the Society of Professional Journalists. In 2019 and 2011 A-P named her “Best Reporter” for large market radio in Ohio. She has won awards from the Association of Women in Communications and the Alliance for Women in Media. Ann reports regularly on science and technology in Focus on Technology.