What is Synthetic Marijuana/K2?
Most people have heard about synthetic marijuana, K2 also known as spice, legal weed and herbal incense. Yet, most people are unaware of the danger and high risk of this drug. K2 is detrimentally affecting millions of people throughout Texas and the United States.
Although K2 is referred to as synthetic marijuana, it is completely different from natural marijuana. K2 is coated with synthetic cannabinoids, which are a family of over 700 research chemicals.
Analysis on the drug has shown that rather than being a simple mixture of harmless herbs, such as canavalia, the product has been altered and sprayed with synthetic cannabinoids.
Despite the presence of altered material, the label on the product misleads consumers by stating the product is made from “All Natural” ingredients.
Importantly, some synthetic cannabinoids are 100 times stronger than THC and affect brain receptors differently than natural marijuana.
The ingredients and concentrations used in this street drug vary widely, and can be different from marijuana in its effects.
Synthetic marijuana is widely popular among teenagers and twenty-somethings due to the misconception that possession and consumption of K2 is legal. Possession of 2 grams of synthetic marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by jail time and steep fines.
If you have been charged with possession of synthetic marijuana anywhere in Travis County, Texas including at the University of Texas at Austin, St. Edwards University, or Austin Community College, it is important to consult an experienced K2 possession attorney immediately.
Side Effects / Overdose / Stats of Synthetic Marijuana
Side effects to synthetic marijuana are unfavorably negative and may consist of:
- High blood pressure
- Blurred vision
- Heart attack
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Severe anxiety
- Paranoia
- In some cases, death
Texas has seen a dramatic spike in the number of hospitalizations linked with use of synthetic marijuana. In Austin, alone, there have been at least 170 patients in the hospital with bad reactions to the drug since May of 2015.
Criminal Penalties for Synthetic Marijuana in Austin, Texas
In most states, including Texas synthetic marijuana is illegal. The punishment for possession of synthetic marijuana is similar to penalties for possession of marijuana. The synthetic brands fall under the Penalty Group 2-A.
Less than 2 ounces of synthetic marijuana is a Class B Misdemeanor with a fine of no more than $2,000 and/or potentially 6 months in county jail. The maximum penalty at 2,000lbs and up of synthetic marijuana is a 1st degree felony coupled with a $50,000 fine and 5 years to life in jail.
Synthetic Marijuana Attorney in Austin Texas
For as long as marijuana is illegal in Austin, Texas and surrounding areas, synthetic marijuana is going to be seen as an attractive alternative. As the chemical mixtures change on synthetic marijuana, the laws will adapt. Jail time is always a huge risk when electing to posses or distribute synthetic marijuana.
Kevin Bennett of the Law Office of Kevin Bennett has over eight years of experience defending individuals with possession charges. He will passionately work on your behalf to get the charges reduced or dismissed, depending on the unique circumstances of your case.
The Law Office of Kevin Bennett proudly defends individuals throughout Texas, including Austin, Pflugerville, Lago Vista, Lakeway, and the surrounding areas. Contact Kevin Bennett at (512) 476-4626 to schedule a confidential review of your case. Attorney on call 24/7.
