Police warning over 'legal highs' (From Banbury Cake)

Police warning over 'legal highs'

1:07pm Wednesday 23rd December 2009

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An Oxfordshire police officer today warned people that possession of some so-called ‘legal highs’ could lead to prosecution.

The chemical solvent gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), known as liquid ecstasy, will become a class-C drug. This drug is sometimes used as a substitute for the already banned drug GHB, and the risks are increased when consumed with alcohol. Benzylpiperazine (BZP), and related piperazines, which are stimulants, become class-C drugs. They are produced in pills and powders, creating a surge of energy but also agitation, headaches and sickness.

The changes to the law means that users of these substance can now be punished with up to a two-year jail term, and those convicted of dealing in the substances can be jailed for up to 14 years.

Synthetic cannabinoids, man-made chemicals sprayed on herbal smoking products such as Spice, are now a class-B drug. Anyone caught with a class-B drug faces up to five years in prison.

The herbal mix works by mimicking the effects of cannabis and pouches have been sold on the Internet and in shops for about £20.

PC Leigh Thompson, drugs co-ordinator for Oxfordshire, said: “These drugs are dangerous and harmful to people, and in some instances have been fatal.

“People need to realise that these substances are no longer legal and anyone found in possession of them will be dealt with accordingly.”

For more information on these and other drugs, go to www.talktofrank.com or text questions to 82111.

If you have any information regarding drug activity, contact Thames Valley Police via the 24-hour Enquiry Line on 0845 8 505 505, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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