A synthetic drug is making its way around Windsor and Essex County.
It’s known by the street names K2 or IZMS, but much of the ingredients found in the synthetic marijuana are considered illegal by authorities. They say the synthetic pot is laced with a chemical agent to give off a hallucinogenic high.
Windsor police have begun an investigation attempting to get it off the streets.
“We're definitely aware that there are some shops in the City of Windsor that are offering synthetic marijuana," says Sgt. Matthew D'Asti.
Police say synthetic pot has become more prominent in Windsor-Essex in the last several months.
It has become such major issue in the state of Michigan, that Gov. Rick Snyder banned the synthetic drug last year.
Windsor police have sent samples purchased from local retailers to Health Canada for analysis.
“Preliminary results of the analysis are indicative that the substances are illegal," says D’Asti.
Now police await direction from local prosecutors and Health Canada on their next steps.
“We want to ensure that when we do move forward on this, we have all the information we need," says D’Asti.
Windsor head shop Endless Heights sells smoking paraphernalia, including tobacco water pipes and herbal incense, but an employee says they don't sell the synthetic pot. The employee says they have been approached by sellers before, but the owner didn't buy it.
Windsor police are working alongside Halton and Niagara police services. The forces are hoping to launch an educational campaign in the coming weeks for both business owners and patrons.
"We want to make sure that we're up front with these people and they are aware of what's in the packages that's on their shelves," says D’Asti.
