Police officer first to be trained as drug recognition expert
COURTESY MPD
Montclair Officer Elisa Arnaldy recently received her certification as a drug recognition expert through the New Jersey State Police.
A drug recognition expert is skilled in detecting and identifying persons under the influence of drugs and in identifying the category or categories of drugs causing the impairment. With the rising usage of fentanyl and the nation's recognition of the opioid epidemic, Arnaldy's experience, skills and training will be a positive step in addressing this problem within the community.
Arnaldy is the first officer from the Montclair Police Department to complete this training. To receive this certification, candidates must attend training for approximately one month, with practical and classroom instruction in Camden and Hamilton, New Jersey and must pass all required testing.
Arnaldy has been a member of the Montclair Police Department since 2003 and has received honors from Mothers Against Drunk Driving in 2012, 2013, 2016 and 2017 for her effectiveness in enforcing motor vehicle laws against those who drive impaired. She has also served within the Juvenile Aid Bureau as a detective during her career.