By G.T. Houts
San Bernardino, CA - The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors have unanimously approved an ordinance designed by the Sheriff’s Department to combat synthetic drugs by using a multi-pronged approach to eradicate sales of the illicit substances, which have long eluded comprehensive enforcement.
Sheriff John McMahon presented the Synthetic Drug Ordinance to the Board of Supervisors on July 8. The ordinance includes criminal, administrative and civil penalties for those who sell synthetic drugs – more commonly known as “spice” or “bath salts.”
COMMENTS ON THE ORDINANCE
“I am pleased that the Board of Supervisors adopted a strong policy on these dangerous substances,” Supervisor Ramos stated in a media release. “I hope the community of Barstow takes pride in the fact that their efforts in dealing with these dangerous substances were highlighted at the meeting today.”
Sheriff McMahon told supervisors and those assembled in the Covington Chambers: “The Sheriff’s Department worked closely with various residents involved in local coalitions throughout the County who are concerned about the covert effect synthetic drugs have had on their community. These dedicated community members have been a driving force in garnering awareness of this problem and opening law enforcement’s eyes to the extent of possible sales in the county.”
Supervisor Josie Gonzales recommended an outreach to all cities in the county to encourage them to adopt similar ordinances, if they had not already. Currently seven cities have a synthetic drug ordinance: Adelanto, Barstow. Fontana Highland, Redlands, Rialto, and 29 Palms.
THE ORDINANCE
The ordinance targets synthetic drugs beyond the traditional realm of lab testing and further allows for enforcement based on the marketing, price, sales location, warning labels and similarity to street drugs. For example, synthetic drugs are often labeled as “window cleaner” but are sold in a smoke shop; do not resemble traditional window cleaning products; cost significantly more for a small portion of product; and are labeled with “not for purchase by minors.”
The ordinance finds a combination of the above-listed facts evidence the product is illicit. Furthermore, the ordinance creates penalties that include fines, misdemeanor charges and the possible loss of a business license.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For additional information about the ordinance visit Item 67 on the SUPERVISORS AGENDA online.
The actual ordinance is scheduled for final approval on Tuesday, July 22.
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