Book excerpt: Criminal investigation is a dynamic endeavor impacted by changes in human nature, statutory and constitutional laws, and methods of operation. New challenges are constantly posed for the investigator and the investigation of drug offenses is no exception. It takes advanced skills to keep pace with the criminal mind. Unfortunately, the skills acquired in basic police training are just that: basic. In order to stay ahead of their criminal counterparts, drug enforcement officers must seek extensive, ongoing training and knowledge, not just to secure a lawful conviction but to keep themselves and the public safe. This new edition of the bestselling Practical Drug Enforcement provides a thoroughly revised and updated guide to the contemporary aspects of covert criminal investigations and the management of the drug enforcement unit itself. Appealing to a wide variety of law enforcement officers in all jurisdictions, it addresses different methods of detection, investigation, surveillance, and capture of drug traffickers as well as identifies those methods commonly employed by criminals to avoid detection. Drawing from the author’s expertise in the field, and as a nationally recognized consultant, this book contains practical hands-on information for the officer in the street and the administrator coordinating operations. This edition includes new drug identification photos, charts, and updated statistics, as well as an entirely new chapter on the surreptitious monitoring of suspects, entrapment, and “possession with intent” cases. New topics include— Drug courier profiling High-tech surveillance, including GPS and thermal imaging Raid procedures for clandestine labs Drug diversion by physicians and pharmacies Searching, seizing, and handling drug evidence Reverse sting operations Undercover work, risks, and stress Informant management Designed as an investigative resource on current drug enforcement techniques, Practical Drug Enforcement, Third Edition allows law enforcement personnel from a variety of jurisdictions and priorities to maintain concurrent initiatives regarding the identification, apprehension, and prosecution of all known drug offenders and drug traffickers at local and national levels.