Two suspects have been jailed and over 20 pounds of synthetic marijuana have been seized after Madisonville police raided a residence on East Broadway Street.
After receiving numerous tips and observing heavy traffic at the home, on Thursday afternoon the Madisonville Police Department raided the home and seized 23 pounds of synthetic marijuana, digital scales and drug paraphernalia consistent with the distribution of narcotics, according to police.
Authorities arrested James Alexander, 33, and his live-in girlfriend, Brandy Phelps, 24, and charged each with trafficking in synthetic drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both suspects are being held in the Hopkins County Detention Center on $25,000 cash bonds.
A child who was residing at the home was turned over to Child Protective Services.
According to SurfKyNews.com, several recent arrest reports released by Madisonville police showed bizarre behavior linked to the alleged use of synthetic marijuana.
MPD said in a release that, “K2 or spice became available in the early 2000s that was sold in convenience stores, which prompted lawmakers across the U.S. to take action against sales due to the unregulated chemicals used on the mossy substance that often goes undetected in drug testing. The substance is unrelated to actual marijuana, which is still illegal for use in Kentucky.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control, synthetic marijuana is “various man-made chemicals that some people may use as an alternative to marijuana. It may cause serious side effects that are very different from those of marijuana. Synthetic cannabinoid products may also be toxic. As a result, people who smoke these products may display a rapid heart rate, vomiting, agitation, confusion, and hallucinations.”
(Photo courtesy of the Madisonville PD)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com or 270-259-6000
