Drug trafficking is a pervasive and dangerous crime that involves the illegal production, distribution, and sale of drugs. From small street-level operations to expansive international networks, drug trafficking can take on many forms. Dispatchers play an important role in identifying and relaying crucial information about suspicious activities, potentially preventing harm, and aiding first responders in their efforts to combat drug-related crimes.
In Dispatch Pro’s 2025 Lesson 1, we dive deep into identifying the signs of drug trafficking and the essential questions 911 dispatchers should ask:
1. Frequent, Brief Visits or Large Group Gatherings
Drug dealing operations often involve a high volume of people coming and going at odd hours, making it essential to pay attention to unusual activity around specific locations.
Questions to Ask:
- “Can you describe the location and how often you notice these activities?”
- “How many different people have you seen coming and going from this location?”
2. Strange Chemical Odors
Drug manufacturing, particularly methamphetamine labs, can emit strong, foul smells like ammonia or other chemicals. Being aware of these odors can help dispatchers alert responders to a potential meth lab or other illegal production sites.
Questions to Ask:
- “Are you smelling any strange or strong chemical odors coming from the area?”
- “Do you notice anything like smoke or fumes?”
3. Armed Individuals or Aggressive Behavior
Drug trafficking operations often involve armed individuals or aggressive behavior. Dispatchers can help identify potentially dangerous situations by asking callers about any signs of aggression or weapons.
Questions to Ask:
- “Have you noticed any weapons or aggressive behavior?”
- “Do you feel that you or others in the area are in immediate danger?”
4. Erratic or Evasive Behavior
Drug traffickers may exhibit erratic behavior, including evasive actions or unusual patterns that deviate from normal activities. It’s essential to gather as much detail as possible about how individuals behave in the area.
Questions to Ask:
- “What kind of behavior have you noticed?”
- “Are the individuals acting aggressively, or do they appear to be under the influence of drugs?”
5. Suspicious Items: Scales, Syringes, or Baggies
Common items used in drug trafficking include scales, syringes, and small baggies. If a caller notices these objects, it can indicate that illegal drug transactions are taking place.
Questions to Ask:
- “Have you noticed any objects like syringes, baggies, or other suspicious items?”
- “Are they carrying any unusual items that seem out of place?”
6. Large Sums of Money or Package Transactions
Transactions involving large sums of money or packages exchanged in unusual locations could signal drug trafficking. Dispatchers need to ask specific questions to help identify such activities.
Questions to Ask:
- “Have you noticed any transactions involving large amounts of cash?”
- “Are people frequently exchanging packages or money?”
7. Recurring Vehicles or People
Often, drug traffickers use the same vehicles or individuals repeatedly in their operations. Identifying recurring vehicles or people is crucial to spotting a drug trafficking network.
Questions to Ask:
- “Have you noticed any specific vehicles that are often involved?”
- “Why do you feel these individuals are suspicious?”
By using these questions and identifying the signs of drug trafficking, dispatchers can provide first responders with critical information, helping them and others stay safe. Dispatch Pro’s monthly lessons include analysis of real 911 calls, equipping dispatchers with the tools and skills needed to effectively manage complex calls like those involving drug trafficking.
If you’re interested in learning more about how our online 911 dispatcher training can help your team, book a demo or schedule a call with us today to learn more.