K2 Information and Photos

This article was highlighted in the Chaska PD 411 newsletter and reproduced here so photographs could be viewed.

A new abused substance called “K2” or “spice” has received much media attention in the metro area and has been identified in Chaska and the surrounding area. K2 is a dried herbal blend coated with a synthetic cannabinoid chemical that causes intoxicating effects similar to marijuana. K2 looks and works a lot like marijuana; however it has many more dangerous side effects. The substance is marketed as incense to mask its intended purpose; it is being misused and smoked to obtain a high.

K2 is legal in Minnesota and teens are able to purchase this drug at tobacco shops. There currently is no regulation on the substance. Because it is not yet legally controlled, that does not mean that use of it is safe. It is impossible to determine what chemicals are on the material and therefore any ingestion would be dangerous. In news reports, these side effects have ranged in severity and some have resulted in hospitalization. Some reported common side effects include: heart palpations and malfunctions, vomiting, panic attacks, agitation, dangerous or violent behavior, paranoia, hallucinations, psychotic episodes, and loss of consciousness.

Chaska officers have heard from area teens that the chemical is being used here. There was one

incident where an officer found marijuana that he suspects was mixed with K2. We ask parents to be aware of the substance and its dangers. Officers can assist with helping identify the substance as well.

We have provided pictures of a package of K2, please be aware there are many different packaging variations of this drug.