A “CUTTING-EDGE” breathalyser, is being trialled by police in Hampshire and the Thames Valley aimed at further tackling drug use.
The test, believed to be the first of its kind in the world, is designed to detect use of nitrous oxide–also known as laughing gas.
Thames Valley Police is using the new device to test drivers with the hope that it could be used to prosecute motorists who are under the influence of illegal drugs.
The device, created by Respira Technologies following research at the Vrije Universteit Amsterdam, is believed to be one-of-a-kind.
A user can simply breathe out into the portable device and receive a test result within minutes.
Crucially, it can detect if a user has inhaled nitrous oxide up to two hours afterwards.
TVP successfully secured Test and Learn funding through the National Science and Innovation Board, part of the NPCC Science and Technology Strategy.
This funding is available to ensure policing in the UK can utilise the latest advances in science and technology to improve crime prevention and detection, and provide the best service to safeguard victims.
Officers will be testing the device until June 5.
Nitrous oxide is a Class C drug, as detailed in the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which can lead to up to two years in prison for possession for unlawful use.
It also has some legal uses for certain professions, such as in medical or dental contexts, and as a fuel or food additive.
However it is also used as a recreational drug which can cause unconsciousness, neurological damage, and even death.
Three teenage boys were killed when they were passengers in a car that crashed into a tree along the A415 in Oxfordshire in 2023.
The 18-year-old driver was filmed inhaling laughing gas behind the wheel just moments before the crash.
Thomas Johnson was travelling at speeds of up to 100mph before his car hit a tree in the village of Marcham, killing passengers Ethan Goddard, Daniel Hancock, both 18, and Elliot Pullen, 17.
Acting Superintendent Emma Hart, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police, said: “There is currently no device available that can prove a driver inhaled laughing gas, making prosecution difficult. That is why our forces are leading this testing phase, to break new ground and prove these devices can help save lives on our roads.
“As a team we are always looking for new ways to make our roads safer.
“Nitrous oxide is a growing issue, especially with young drivers who don’t understand the harm it can cause, so when we saw the opportunity to test this new technology we knew how important it could be towards these devices being rolled out across the country.
“It’s an extremely important technological innovation and we are at the forefront of this cutting-edge research for the benefit of all UK policing.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber added: “This pioneering trial represents an important step in keeping roads safe across the Thames Valley.
“The misuse of nitrous oxide, particularly amongst younger drivers, is an increasing concern, and until now it has been difficult for officers to evidence its use at the roadside.
“By supporting innovative solutions like this, we are giving officers the tools they need to tackle dangerous driving behaviours.”
He explained: “Too many lives have already been lost due to reckless decisions behind the wheel, and this technology has the potential to help prevent further tragedies.
“I am proud that Thames Valley Police is playing a key role in exploring new ways of improving road safety and protecting our communities.”
