TPD Warns Against Use of Synthetic Marijuana

According to the Tuscaloosa Police Department, West Alabama Narcotics is seeing a huge increase in the amount of people using synthetic marijuana and having life threatening reactions.  At least 20 people have required medical attention after overdosing on Spice over the past month alone.

Health effects include severe agitation, anxiety, fast racing heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, muscle spasms, seizures, tremors, intense hallucinations, psychotic episodes, and suicidal and other harmful thoughts and actions.  Anyone using Spice is encouraged to stop and get help.

Agents are working to remove Spice from the streets. Last year, over 66 pounds were seized with a total street value of almost $600,000, and suspects were arrested on 62 Spice-related charges. So far this year, agents have seized about 4 pounds with a street value of $34,000 and arrested suspects on 20 Spice-related charges. Currently, agents are seeing 1 gram small ziploc bags selling for $20.00 a gram.