Use of banned drugs alters future, not just mind

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tracie Forte
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE --  An increase in the abuse of the herbal mixture "spice" has led to a greater emphasis on the ramifications of using this drug.

Marketed and sold as incense, and closely resembling potpourri, spice, also known as K2, skunk, or synthetic marijuana, is among many drugs banned under Defense Department Directive 1010-3.4, Air Force Instruction 44-120 and Air Force Instruction 44-121. Many different strands of the drug have been identified as Schedule 1 controlled substances, which places spice in the same category as cocaine and heroin.

The Air Force has seen a rise in spice abuse over the last few years, according to Capt. Dakota Fiori, 56th Fighter Wing Judge Advocate chief of military justice.

"Though some synthetic variations of spice may not be considered a controlled substance, use of any variation of spice is still a violation of Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, for failure to obey an order or regulation," she said. "If the spice ingested contains a Schedule 1 controlled substance, this is also a violation of Article 112a of the UCMJ. Possession of spice, whether being consumed or not, is also illegal. Violations of Article 92 and Article 112a of the UCMJ could result in a maximum five-year confinement and a dishonorable discharge."

According to Air Force Instruction 44-120, "the knowing use of any intoxicating substance other than the lawful use of alcohol or tobacco products that is inhaled, injected, consumed or introduced into the body in any manner to alter mood or function is prohibited."

According to research from San Diego's Naval Medical Center in October, the chemicals in spice imitate the effects of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, but it is significantly more dangerous. The manufactured chemicals within spice are five to 200 times more potent than the active ingredients in marijuana. Overall, when Air Force members use or possess spice they endanger their careers and health.