Prosecutor aims to stop 'Spice' use

NAMPA (AP) - A prosecutor in southwestern Idaho plans to crack down on underage users of a synthetic marijuana called Spice.

Canyon County Prosecutor John Bujak also said he will prosecute local businesses that sell Spice knowing minors will use it to get high.

"I find it irresponsible for businesses in the Treasure Valley to be marketing this substance," Bujak said in a statement Thursday. "Until the Idaho Legislature acts, I'm going to do everything I can to stop its use and distribution, particularly to juveniles."

Spice is legal in Idaho and does not have an age restriction, but Bujak said Idaho law will allow him to charge minors with a misdemeanor count of possession of inhalants. which has a penalty of up to 30 days in a juvenile facility and a $300 fine.

He said there is nothing in the law allowing him to prosecute adults for using Spice, but he can target businesses that sell it to minors.

The penalty for distribution of Spice, Bujak said, is up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Spice, also known as K2, is a mixture of herbal and spice plant products sprayed with synthetic cannabiniods and marketed as incense. It has been banned in 11 states, and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration has labeled it a "drug of concern."

The Idaho Office of Drug Policy and state GOP Rep. Darrell Bolz of Caldwell have said they would like to see Spice made illegal in the state, and the Legislature may take up the question in the 2011 session.