On May 7, 2014, the DEA served hundreds of arrest warrants in 25 states, as it seeks to crackdown on synthetic drug retailers, manufacturers, and wholesalers. In all, more than 150 arrests were made and about 200 search warrants were served in smoke shops, residences, and warehouses.
Authorities seized hundreds of thousands of individual packets of synthetic drugs and hundreds of kilograms of synthetic products used to make the drugs. The confiscated evidence totaled approximately $20 million in cash and assets.
What are Synthetic Drugs?
Synthetic drugs – which include bath salts, spice, and Molly (MDMA) – have gained popularity and some would argue notoriety in the last few years as use of the drugs have skyrocketed.
Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is the most common ingredient found in bath salts; however, other stimulants may also be present, such as mephedrone and methylone. These three chemicals have all been placed on the Schedule I controlled substances list. Schedule I controlled substances cannot be sold under any circumstances and cannot be prescribed for medical purposes.
Bath salts are known for producing a high similar to methamphetamine. Users typically snort the drug; however, it can also be smoked, injected, orally ingested or used rectally. Bath salts can have effects with very small doses, from 3 to 5 milligrams. If taken orally, absorption is very quick with peak absorption occurring at 1.5 hours. The high can last as long as 3 to 4 hours. However, there is a "crash" associated with using bath salts, which can make the entire experience last as long as eight hours.
If you were arrested for possession or sale of a synthetic drug, then please don't hesitate to call my firm for a free consultation!