BOSTON — 908 Devices Inc., a developer of portable chemical analysis tools, has received a $2 million order from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for its MX908 handheld mass spectrometry devices. The order, which expands on a previous purchase made last year, will enhance the state’s frontline efforts in detecting and mitigating the spread of dangerous illicit drugs, including fentanyl.
The investment, funded through the federally supported Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant, will deploy multiple MX908 units across critical interdiction points throughout Texas. The devices will aid agencies such as the Criminal Investigations Division and Narcotics Enforcement in identifying and addressing the growing threat posed by synthetic opioids and other hazardous substances.
The MX908 offers first responders rapid, high-sensitivity detection of trace amounts of a wide range of substances, including fentanyl, nitazenes, counterfeit pills, and other illicit drugs in various forms. Its advanced mass spectrometry technology provides fast, actionable data in the field, allowing law enforcement and emergency personnel to respond quickly and accurately to unknown threats.
“Fentanyl is a national crisis, with fentanyl-related deaths in Texas rising 158% between 2020 and 2023,” said Kevin J. Knopp, CEO and co-founder of 908 Devices. “We are proud to support the Texas Department of Public Safety as they confront the growing challenge of illicit drug trafficking. Our MX908 devices are designed to help keep communities safe and save lives at this critical time.”
The latest shipment of MX908 units was completed in April, with the devices now being deployed throughout Texas to bolster drug detection capabilities. This expanded deployment comes as state and local agencies ramp up efforts to combat the escalating opioid crisis and modernize their approaches to narcotics enforcement.
With fentanyl and other synthetic opioids contributing to a sharp increase in overdose deaths across the country, law enforcement agencies are increasingly turning to advanced technology to help stem the tide. The MX908 offers a portable solution that enhances the ability of first responders to detect these dangerous substances quickly and accurately in the field.
