Photographer: WFTS
Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Posted: 07/26/2012
Pasco County Sheriff's Deputies say they seized 100,000 packets of synthetic drugs and the materials used to make them.
It's all part of an international crackdown between sheriff's deputies and the DEA, called "Operation Log Jam."
Sheriff Chris Nocco with the Pasco County Sheriff's Office said, "We had direct ties to China involved. From China to Pasco County and off to other areas of the United States. We were a point of distribution and manufacturing."
Investigators raided a warehouse at 4339 Buena Vista Lane, in Holiday yesterday. They say the designer drugs were made in Pasco County, then shipped to Tennessee.
Investigators tell ABC Action News they found Spice packets, which reportedly sell for $15 on the streets. They also seized hundreds of pounds of materials and 8 gallons of acetone.
Sheriff Nocco says the packets are marketed to children and he urges parents to talk to their kids about the dangers of designer drugs. Nocco said, "We want them to be informed. We want them to know what to look for. Because if we can prevent it coming into your house we've done a great job and we've already won the battle."
Investigators are also targeting convenience stores they say sell the drug, claiming they're just as responsible as the people making them.
Sheriff Nocco said, "You are part of a conspiracy. We will be coming after you. We will be taking your assets and we will be bringing you to jail one day. Be forewarned."
Investigators say synthetic marijuana distribution spots could be anywhere and they need your help finding them.
If you see any suspicious activity, like cars coming and going often or see large white bags or boxes being delivered or smell the chemical acetone in the air, you're asked to call the Pasco County Sheriff's Office at (727) 847-5878.
Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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