Spice and other synthetic drugs are dangerous and illegal

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Daniel Medina
  • Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center Legal Office
Kirtland Air Force Base, NM --  On Nov. 27, synthetic cannabinoids, including Spice, K2, 3 Kings, Black King and other brand names, were added to New Mexico's Schedule I Controlled Substances list.

This action makes use, possession or distribution of Spice in New Mexico illegal for anyone, military or civilian. The change to the law was prompted by the serious health risks.

Spice, also known as synthetic cannabis, is an herbal and chemical product that mimics the effects of marijuana.

Using Spice can result in seizures, hallucinations, paranoid behavior, agitation, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, racing heartbeat and elevated blood pressure. Emergency rooms have also reported that using Spice and other synthetic drugs leads to severe psychotic episodes, violent outbursts, self-inflicted wounds and suicide.

Although recently made illegal by New Mexico, the use of Spice by military members was already a violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Air Force Instruction 44-120 prohibits military personnel from using or possessing Spice. Members who use or possess Spice subject themselves to serious consequences, including administrative discharge and/or court-martial.

A discharge or court-martial based on Spice use will very likely result in an unfavorable service characterization. A less-than-honorable service characterization will affect everything from future employment opportunities to the many benefits available to members separated or retired from the military.

Additionally, a court-martial conviction for Spice use would authorize punishment, which could include a dishonorable discharge and up to two years of confinement.

The Air Force has the capability to test for Spice and other synthetic drugs, and continues to regularly test military members for drugs through urinalysis.

Additionally, dorm sweeps, gate checks, and other inspections are methods employed by commanders to ensure that Spice and other synthetic drugs do not negatively affect our safety and good order and discipline.