The possession/sale of non regulated drugs such as Kratom within in the city limits of Butler again came into discussion by the council on Tuesday. Some time back, a resident addressed the council regarding a serious reaction after consuming such a product that was purchased in Butler resulting in hospitalization; a request was made to look into the issue further and consider banning the sale of it along with other associated "gas station" drugs including cannabinoid derivatives, among others.
The council moved forward with an ordinance banning the sale and possession of such, with police chief Jarret Wheatley stating that in his investigation there have been several more reports of bad reactions to the drugs, which again are not regulated by the FDA, and otherwise don't appear to have any medicinal value, in his opinion.
To complicate matters, manufacturers of the drugs often change the name, chemical make up or even a description to elude bans- Wheatley suggested to overcome this issue, the ordinance will ban any derivative thereof such product.
During the discussion, councilman Young asked if a person is in possession of the product that was purchased elsewhere, how would that affect enforcement; Wheatley replied that officers will have full discretion in handling the stop and furthermore, if there is a question about what the substance actually is, it will be sent to a lab for analysis.
To alleviate confusion, Wheatley reiterated that enforcement of the ordinance is specifically geared towards non FDA regulated drugs and any other drug related matters (marijuana, opiates, etc.) will be handled lawfully as usual.
To alleviate confusion, Wheatley reiterated that enforcement of the ordinance is specifically geared towards non FDA regulated drugs and any other drug related matters (marijuana, opiates, etc.) will be handled lawfully as usual.
He added "This needs to stop now. Not five years from now when it's totally out of control."
The ordinance was passed unanimously by the council and Wheatley said a transition to enforcement will begin with officers visiting local outlets that sell the products to explain the ordinance and give retailers time to make the necessary changes.
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