morganheim_trespass-0040
Members of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense, or CBRN defense, prepare to test samples from an array of possible toxins found at a trespass marijuana grow site in Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Cali. The hope is that a device that uses a laser could allow testing for compounds like carbofuran without needing to open bottles. Any time a container must be opened, the danger of exposure increases. Containers can pressurize and gasify when left in the sun, becoming a bomb. Once, a mask similar to ones you see here saved Dr. Mourad Gabriel from just such a situation. CBRN defense is a domestic branch specializing in handling of weapons of mass destruction. Multiple bottles of carbofuran and containers with carbofuran were found at this site. In the past, growers used the chemicals primarily to protect their crops and camps from wildlife, but have recently taken to using the chemicals to target law enforcement. (The face of one officer in the background has been blurred in order to protect on-going investigations)