The state is cracking down on the production and sale of synthetic drugs.
Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a new series of aggressive enforcement actions to fight the distribution of K2, including revoking a store owner's liquor and lottery licenses if they are found illegally peddling K2.
Beginning this week, there will also be an increased police presence to make sure businesses follow all state laws. This includes banning the manufacture, sale, and distribution of synthetic drugs.
In 2012, Cuomo expanded the list of prohibited drugs and chemicals to include other substances used to make synthetic drugs. He also included the selling of synthetic drugs to be a charge of possession of an illicit substance.
In 2015, Cuomo added two classes of compounds to the banned list, potentially including hundreds of different hazardous chemicals.
The current law results in a fine up to $500 and/or up to 15 days in jail for possessing, distributing, selling or offering prohibited synthetic drugs.
Some street names for synthetic drugs to keep an ear out for include Spice, K2, Green Giant, Smacked, Wicked X, AK-47, Geeked Up, Ninja, Caution, Red Giant, and Keisha Kole. Sometimes the drugs are marked as incense, herbal mixtures, or potpourri.
