Drug Testing Policy
The Community Services Division has another unique component which features an on-site drug testing system and a range of other technical mechanisms to assist staff with drug intervention, supervision, and effective case management for participants on all of the court ordered programs. The Work Release Program has an on-site drug testing system that allows for immediate test results in determining substance abuse. Participants on work release, home detention and pretrial supervision are tested on a random basis. A Certified System Manager and certified operators, who are a part of the program staff, coordinate and maintain program operations.

The use of alcohol by inmates presents a serious threat to the safety and security of any correctional facility and to the effectiveness of community programs. The Community Monitors have incorporated the use of the Portable Breath Tester (PBT) when completing job checks and home visits in the community. Utilization of this technology has proven effective for community supervision due to the element of surprise. In addition to portable breath tests and random urinalysis testing for alcohol and other substances a further deterrent is the "Alcomonitor" which is utilized on a daily basis. This is a stationary device located in the Work Release Center engineered to accurately determine alcohol concentration in a given breath sample. All participants on work release are tested daily upon his /her return to the facility.

Home Detention participants are also subjected to the test as they report to the Work Release Center to conduct business. When a breath test is positive, a urinalysis test is conducted for confirmation of alcohol content. It is the policy of the Frederick County Corrections Bureau, Community Services Division, to maintain substance free programs for the benefit of public safety and to effectively supervise offenders in the community. The Division accomplishes these goals with implementation of the drug component and by completing on-site job checks and home visits. This is essential to the operation in maintaining accreditation with Maryland Commission on Correctional Standards. Efforts maintained by the Community Monitors are relentless in assisting with maintaining public safety in our communities.