FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
"SPICE" is the newest, "legal" drug working its way across the county, and our community here at Joint Base Langley Eustis is no exception to this new epidemic.
SPICE was first introduced in European and Canadian Smartshops (retail establishments that specializes, in the sales of psychoactive substances) in 2002 as incense. Even though the packaging on all SPICE brands warns against human consumption, it is usually smoked for its psychotropic effects similar to marijuana.
Packaged and sold as an "aromatic incense," this green leafy substance mimics the effects of marijuana when it is ingested to the body through the act of smoking. It is easily available at tobacco shops, and gas stations, and is relatively cheap (between $25 and $50 for one to three grams). Some of the brand names we've seen a rise in locally are "PUFF", "SPIRIT" and "HAMPster" brands to name a few. All are sold as incense, yet all are being smoked as a substitute for marijuana. The availability and low cost is making this the new drug of choice for many servicemembers and minors.
Although SPICE is not yet illegal in the United States, many other countries have outlawed the use of SPICE, such as Germany, the United Kingdom and Switzerland, placing SPICE on their nation's list of controlled substances.
As a reminder to all members of the U.S. Army and members of the Army Civilian Corps, Army Regulation 600-85, The Army Substance Abuse Program, prohibits the use of substances, including naturally occurring substances that are used for a primary purpose of inducing excitement, intoxication or stupefaction of the central nervous system. Use or possession of SPICE is a violation of AR 600-85, and a direct violation of Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (Failure to Obey an Order or Regulation).
From Feb. 13 to March 1, the Fort Eustis Police have seized more than 10 different types of SPICE and charged more than 30 servicemembers under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for Failure to Obey a General Order. Additionally, Eustis Police have encountered several personnel who were under the influence of SPICE, and have seen firsthand that its effects can be incapacitating to the user placing them in a state of utter confusion. For these reasons, Eustis Police will enforce a zero tolerance policy regarding SPICE possession and use. If you have questions regarding SPICE or you would like to report an Article 92 violation, please call the Eustis Police Desk at 878-4555, or anonymously text tips to 274637, and start your text with MPDESK.