Warning against Synthetic Drug Called “Bath Salts”

The Los Angeles County Public Health Department issued a warning against the use of "bath salts" on October 12, 2012. "Bath salts" are a synthetic drug combination which should not be confused with bath products such Epsom salts which are sold over the counter as a health product. A street drug, "bath salts" are also known as "white lightning," "white rush", and "hurricane charley." The drug contains a powerful ingredient called "MDPV," short for methylenedioxypyrovalerone, a stimulant which can cause nightmarish hallucinations, agitation, high blood pressure, seizures, kidney failure, paranoia, dangerously high heart rates, suicides, and psychotic delusions. MDPV has been shown to be ten times stronger than cocaine. Use of the drug has resulted in emergency room visits by those ingesting it, who often need to be treated with sedatives for up to two weeks to reduce the terrifying side effects.

The drug first began showing up in Louisiana but has spread to other areas, including the Los Angeles region. It generally comes in packages in a powder form whose color ranges from white to yellow to brown. According to the LA County Public Health Department, it is often sold as plant food or pond water cleaner. The Drug Enforcement Administration has reported that 60 percent of those who have used the drug in cases reported to emergency centers have been under the age of 25. Doses of the drug vary wildly which adds an additional risk factor to those who use it.

Drug Crime Defense in Los Angeles

Drug crimes are among the most common criminal charges heard in courts. These crimes range from simple possession to drug dealing and trafficking. The most serious drug crimes involving mass quantities of controlled substances are investigated and prosecuted at the federal level. Facing state or federal drug charges can have major repercussions on your life, including a future with a criminal record that can easily be accessed by prospective employers, educational institutions, professional licensing agencies, and more.

Don't become another drug offender statistic. Contact Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners if you have been charged with a drug crime in the Los Angeles area. Learn how Attorney Helfend, who has been practicing criminal defense since 1984, can protect and defend you for optimum results. Contact the firm for a legal consultation today.