foster+freeman, a global leader in forensic technology, is proud to announce the upcoming launch of ContraSCAN™, a revolutionary handheld device designed to detect dangerous synthetic drugs, including “Spice” in real-time.

Developed through an exclusive licensing agreement with the University of Bath, ContraSCAN provides a critical breakthrough for prison services, law enforcement, and secure facilities struggling to combat the endemic trade of illicit substances.

Turning the Tide on Synthetic Drugs

The smuggling of synthetic cannabinoids, often soaked into paper, clothing, and legal mail, has reached a crisis point. These substances are frequently linked to increased violence, medical emergencies, and fatalities within prisons and correctional facilities. Until now, detecting these “invisible” threats required time-consuming screening tools and costly laboratory analysis, creating a dangerous delay in operational response.

ContraSCAN changes the game by offering:

• Instant Optical Detection: Rapidly identifies the presence of synthetic cannabinoids, including Spice, upon contact, significantly enhancing throughput for the critical task of screening mail and property.
• Forensic Accuracy, Simply Operated: Delivers high-confidence, presumptive results that allow staff to take immediate operational action on-site.
• Non-Destructive Screening: Preserves the integrity of the evidence for further laboratory identification.
• Frontline Safety: Protects staff from accidental exposure to potent synthetics.

“The trade and use of synthetic cannabinoids in prisons is a critical security challenge,” said Phil Wild, CEO of foster+freeman. “With drug use in our prisons at endemic levels, ContraSCAN represents a vital breakthrough. By enabling the instant detection of synthetics like Spice, we are empowering HMPPS and other agencies to reclaim control, disrupt supply chains, and restore the safety essential for meaningful prisoner rehabilitation.”

The technology is built upon unique IP developed by Professor Chris Pudney and his team at the University of Bath’s Department of Life Sciences. By translating this award-winning research into a rugged, portable tool, foster+freeman is providing a cost-effective alternative to existing high-end scanners.

ContraSCAN is set to reach frontline services later this year.  Organisations interested in the deployment of ContraSCAN or in participating in upcoming technology demonstrations can register their interest at fosterfreeman.com/forensic-drug-solutions/ or contact the specialist forensic team at info@fosterfreeman.com.