Michigan State Police visit stores to enforce ban on K2, other synthetic drugs

By Cindy Heflin Associate news director

Posted on Thu, Jul 26, 2012 : 8:29 p.m.

Michigan State Police Thursday said they have visited more than 3,500 retail stores since late June in an effort to raise awareness that is illegal to buy, sell or possess K2 or other synthetic drugs.

Most stores were not selling the drugs, sometimes called synthetic marijuana, but 140 cases are being investigated, state police said in a news release.

Synthetic drugs, such as Spice and K2 and bath salts, have been blamed for health problems and violent behavior, especially among young people.

Under a law passed earlier this year, anyone caught making, distributing or selling the substances can be charged with a felony that carries a maximum punishment of seven years in prison. Possession can bring two years. The law went into effect July 1.

Anyone who suspects a retailer is selling designer drugs such as K2 or bath salts is encouraged to report it by calling the MSP tip line at 1-855-MICH-TIP (642-4847).

For more information on the law and these drugs, visit www.michigan.gov/DesignerDrugs.