New drug poses danger

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Allison M. Boehm
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  A new drug -- commonly marketed as "bath salts" or "plant food" -- has gained popularity in the local area and Barksdale's leaders are remaining vigilant against its use and distribution.

The Barksdale Office of Special Investigations is supporting Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal's recently announced addition of this series of chemicals to the Controlled Dangerous Substance Act.

The drug is used illegally as synthetic cocaine. Although forms of it are sold at local convenience stores and tobacco shops, it is now illegal to possess, manufacture or distribute these chemicals. Violators could face up to 30 years imprisonment.

"These products are being marketed by the brand names Ivory Wave, Ocean, Charge +, White Lightening, Scarface, Hurricane Charlie, Red Dove, Cloud-9 and White Dove," said Special Agent Robert Keys, AFOSI Detachment 210 superintendent. "Louisiana State Police have received recommendations that these products should be treated as Schedule I narcotics."'

Global Strike Command officials are involved in educating Airmen and civilian employees and supporting law enforcement in eliminating the production, use, sale or possession of these drugs.

"Pursuant to Air Force policy, the illegal or improper use of any drug is incompatible with military service and automatically places the member's continued service in jeopardy," said Col. Tim Fay, 2nd Bomb Wing commander.

The Drug Enforcement Agency said the drugs cause users euphoria and extreme energy, but they'll also appear agitated, suffer from hallucinations or worse. The drug is being used as synthetic cocaine and also causes a dramatic increase in heart rate and blood pressure when snorted, swallowed or injected, officials say.

Colonel Fay asked Barksdale Airmen not to allow any drug to affect the 2 BW operational readiness.

"Your nation and your Air Force need each one of you -- please do not put your future at risk for this," he said.