Anabolic steroids are not only prohibited in sports competitions but also in other type of work. They consider steroids just like those drugs classified as substance of abuse. Recreational drugs and performance enhancing drugs are not treated lightly by most organizations because of its possible side effects to the user. Recreational drugs are considered dangerous because of its addicting properties. On the other hand, anabolic steroids would result to other health conditions if used for longer period. Employees who will be tested positive for steroids will definitely be given sanctions which may include termination from the service.

The use of steroids in the law enforcement agencies is a typical example. There are many cases of police officers who were involved in the use of performance enhancing drugs. The usual reason- they want to be more effective in their jobs by becoming bigger and stronger.

Although they may have a good intention but it is still a clear violation of policies. If some of them were terminated from the service because of possession and use of anabolic steroids, there were also a few who were able to fight their case and avoid the stiff sanctions.

In Phoenix, a police officer who was fired last year because of a positive test for steroids was reinstated to the service. The city’s Police Civil Service Board ordered for the reinstatement of Officer Cedric Tillman. The Board opted for a lighter penalty which is a 5-day suspension. Tillman, who is already at his 40’s was tested positive for the metabolites of nandrolone. Although he denied that he intentionally used a performance enhancing drug, he admitted to taking supplements which he believes contained the banned substance.

According to the AP report, Tillman was a former wide receiver for the Arizona Rattlers football team. Phoenix police chief Jack Harris is disappointed on the decision of the Board. If the positive test was for other illegal drug, their decision could not have been questioned. As a former football player, Tillman could have ample knowledge about anabolic steroids. So saying that he was a victim of another company who failed to declare steroids or steroid like substances is a hard thing to believe.

Meanwhile, a NY State Corrections officer was sentenced to 5 years probation for selling steroids. Zachary Lazore, 23, of Yorkville, admitted during the trial that he sold steroids to clients including a police informant last year. The Oneida County Court did not impose prison time for the defendant because of his cooperation in the case.

Another respondent in the case, Peter Dinardo, 42, of Deerfield is scheduled for a trial later this month. Dinardo is also a corrections officer and was suspended without pay while the case is being heard. Lazore, on the other hand, was terminated last year from the service.

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