Pubdate: Mon, 26 Mar 2007 Source: State Journal-Register (IL) Copyright: 2007 The State Journal-Register Contact: http://www.sj-r.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/425 Author: John Reynolds Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Test) SHERIFF'S OFFICE PASSES DRUG TESTS After two rounds of random drug testing, no one in the Sangamon County sheriff's office has tested positive, Sangamon County Sheriff Neil Williamson said last week. "So far, there have been no positive indications of anything. It couldn't be going better," Williamson said. Last year, random drug testing was required under a new contract for county deputies. The tests look for alcohol, illegal drugs and steroids. Tests are done four times a year, and each time, about a dozen people are chosen randomly. The employees are not given any warning of when the tests might occur. About 90 people are subject to the random testing provision - all deputies, including Williamson and senior commanders, and about a dozen court security officers. Because the tests are done randomly, the same person could be tested more than once during a year. Results from the latest round of testing came back earlier this month. When new program was adopted last year, Williamson said he did not believe there were any drug problems in his office. The sheriff pushed for the program, however, so "there would be no questions in anybody's mind." Each test costs about $255. Of that, $215 is to test for steroids. Deputies who test positive for illegal drugs or steroids are subject to discipline, up to and including discharge. Deputies found to be under the influence of alcohol or prescription drugs will not be subject to disciplinary action for their first offense if they agree to the following conditions: appropriate treatment, discontinue abuse, complete treatment including an after-care group for a period of 12 months. A deputy must also agree to submit to random testing during work while involved with after-care. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman