“Spice” refers to a number of different herbal and chemical mixtures, which when smoked, cause experiences similar to marijuana use. These drugs are often advertised as safe, and for years they were legal alternatives to cannabis. They contain dried-shredded plant materials and chemical additives that provide psychoactive effects similar to that of marijuana. The most popular spice is sold as K2, but it is also found under the names Red X Dawn, potpourri, fake weed, Skunk, Yucatan Fire and Moon Rocks. Synthetic marijuana is highly addictive and possessing it can result in serious criminal penalties.
Being charged with possession of synthetic marijuana can have serious consequences for you and your family. Having an aggressive and experienced defense lawyer to guide you through the legal process can be invaluable when you are facing drug charges involving synthetic marijuana. The experienced Orange County drug crime defense attorneys at the Law Offices of David A. Stein work diligently to obtain the best possible outcome for our clients who are facing serious charges involving illegal drugs. Please contact us for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
Spice Drug Crimes
For years, spice mixtures were easy to purchase online and at head shops and gas stations in Orange County. It was not until recently that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) designated the five active chemicals found in spice as Schedule I controlled substances, and California lawmakers made it a crime to possess, buy or sell drugs like K2. There are some manufacturers who attempt to bypass this law by altering which chemicals are used to make spice, but possession will result in criminal charges. The DEA is continually monitoring the sale of spice, and Orange County law enforcement officials are attempting to crack down on its sale, use and distribution.
California Synthetic Marijuana Law
In 2011, California criminalized the sale and distribution of synthetic marijuana. Under California Health and Safety Code Section 11357.5: “Every person who sells, dispenses, distributes, furnishes, administers, or gives,” any synthetic cannabinoid compound is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of $1,000.
Synthetic Marijuana and Juveniles
Synthetic marijuana is especially popular among juveniles. According to Drugabuse.gov, 7.9 percent of high school seniors reported use of K2/Spice in the year 2013. If apprehended and charges, these young people could face severe criminal penalties, the creation of a criminal record, probation, community service, mandatory drug treatment programs and other potentially life-altering penalties.
Juveniles with a clean record who are facing misdemeanor charges for possession of synthetic marijuana may be eligible to participate in a drug diversion program. They will have to admit to the charges after which they will face six months of probation. If they complete drug education classes, keep their grades up and perform community service, the charges could be dismissed after the six months period is over. If, however, this is not their first time facing synthetic marijuana charges, the penalties are likely to be much more severe. They may become a ward of the court with restrictive supervision from the probation department. The war on drugs has faced much scrutiny in recent years, but it is still in full effect and juveniles are often the ones who suffer.
Building a Solid Defense
Both juveniles and adults can face serious criminal penalties for possessing and selling synthetic marijuana in Orange County. The experienced Orange County drug crime defense attorneys at the Law Offices of David A. Stein stay abreast of the most recent developments in criminal law including those relating to synthetic marijuana. We have successfully defended numerous drug-related charges and have an excellent track record of achieving positive outcomes for clients.
We defend clients in Orange County who have been charged with various synthetic marijuana offenses including illegal sale of Spice or K2; possessing chemicals used to make Spice; selling chemicals used to make the drugs; possession, sale or transportation of Spice; and possession of Bath Salts. If evidence was obtained against you through unlawful search and seizure, we will do everything possible to ensure that the evidence is suppressed and the charges against you are dismissed. Please contact us at (949) 445-0040 to discuss your case at absolutely no cost.
