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Don’t get burned by Spice

  • Published
  • By Michael Dukes
  • 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, SC --  Col. Steven J. Chapman, 315th Airlift Wing commander, wants to leave no doubt that use of synthetic drugs like Spice, which are banned by the Air Force, will not be tolerated.

"There is no gray area on this topic" Colonel Chapman said. "Using designer drugs, whether illegal or not, is prohibited by the Air Force, and will not be tolerated at the 315th."

Spice, also known as Salvia and K-2, is an herbal product that mimics the effects of marijuana and is often sold in "head" shops, tobacco shops and at gas stations as an incense or "herbal smoking blend." The side effects of smoking spice can cause agitation, nausea, fever, hallucinations, seizures, altered mental status, paranoia and combativeness. Unlike marijuana, Spice can cause chemical dependency and can dangerously raise heart rate and blood pressure with risks of stroke and heart attacks.

"In order to ensure military readiness; safeguard the health and wellness of the force; and maintain good order and discipline in the service, the knowing use of any intoxicating substance, other than the lawful use of alcohol or tobacco products, that is inhaled, injected, consumed, or introduced into the body in any manner to alter mood or function is prohibited," stated Air Force Surgeon General, Lt. Gen. Charles B. Green, in a June 2010 memo changing Air Force Instruction 44-121, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program, to include Spice and other banned intoxicating substances.

"Failure to comply with the prohibitions contained the regulation is a violation of Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice," General Green added.

Military investigators have found Spice, and another synthetic drug, Salt, at various retail establishments throughout South Carolina.

"We continue to coordinate with Naval Criminal Investigative Service, base Security Forces and local law enforcement in monitoring the situation locally," said Special Agent Gilbert Rivera, special agent in charge of Air Force Office of Special Investigation Detachment 310 here.

"I ask that we all be vigilant and help prevent designer drugs from compromising our vital mission to the nation and uphold the high standards expected of our Airmen," Colonel Chapman added.

To report suspected use of illegal or banned substances at Joint Base Charleston, call 963-3600.

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