Free Drug Testing Kits, Other Programs Offered to Parents by County

Suffolk County has unveiled a free in-home drug testing kit and other programs to assist parents and guardians with monitoring their children's behavior. 

"The test kits give parents a tool to engage in the critical conversations about drug use; and offers a method for parents who suspect their child may be using illegal substances to be reassured of their judgment and seek professional help if needed," said Sheriff Vincent F. DeMarco on the county website.

The kits were purchased with money seized from drug dealers, according to the county.

Also offered by the county is a program which allows parents to accompany their children into the Riverhead County Correctional Facility and experience first-hand what life is like for incarcerated drug or alcohol abusers. By appointment only, the plan provides a realistic lesson regarding how the futures of at-risk youths might be affected by bad behavior, according to the county. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (631) 853-2732. 

Additionally, a program is available which notifies parents when young drivers are involved in traffic stops. A decal affixed to the car of drivers 21 and under allows police to send a notification card to parents by direct mail or email regarding traffic incidents. For more information on this program, call the county at (631) 852-2277.