DEA Cracks Down on Synthetic Drug Distributors
Earlier this month the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) made an announcement about its progress in reducing the amount of synthetic drugs hitting the streets. According to their release, they seized thousands of kilograms of various types of synthetic drugs as well as weapons, cash and assets totaling more than 15 million dollars.
There are several types of substances that fit into this category, including synthetic marijuana, flakka, bath salts and more. The surge in these types of chemicals has fueled concerns throughout the country as more incidents involving users going to the emergency room are reported. The DEA reports that most of these substances come from china and then the final processing, packaging and distribution happens here in the U.S.
“This poison ruins and takes too many lives; this is incredibly dangerous stuff,” said DEA Acting Administrator Chuck Rosenberg. “Project Synergy III demonstrates our collective commitment to pursue those who produce and distribute this garbage to our children and I am grateful for the partnership of HSI and CBP on this operation.”
In addition to reducing the flow of synthetic drugs into the United States, the project continues to reveal the transfer of millions of dollars from the sale of these drugs to countries of concern in the Middle East.
It has also been revealed through national surveys that users of synthetic drugs like these are also much more likely to abuse other drugs. Aside from law enforcement tactics, the more people are aware of the dangers of the substances, the more lives we can save.