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.