EVANSVILLE, IN (WFIE) -
Several new Indiana laws will take effect on Friday, including a ban on legal drugs law enforcement officers have been concerned about for a long time.
Vanderburgh County Sheriff Eric Williams says the substance, known as K2 or Spice, is similar to marijuana in the way it's used and in its effect. But K2 had been legal in the State of Indiana.
"Now, we encounter it quite frequently, and it's pretty well known that we can't do anything about it," Sheriff Williams said. "We've had some fairly large shipments coming into our community and have known about it, but there were no tools to deal with it. That changes July 1."
Although they're very different, the law also puts compounds found in a drug known as Bath Salts in the same category, synthetic cannabinoid.
These salts aren't meant for a relaxing soak in the tub; they cause a high similar to meth and cocaine.
Nationwide, they're sending hundreds to the hospital.
Williams says they're not as common as K2 in this area but he said he anticipates them coming into the Tri-State soon.
He says enforcement will work the same way it does with other drugs, including gathering tips from the community.
They'll also check stores that have been openly selling the substances while legal.
"We'll probably make some sweeps and instruct our people that, July 2, you need to check the major distributors we're aware of and make sure it is off the shelves," Sheriff Williams said.
He knows users are always adapting and stopping dangerous drugs is a constant struggle.
Under the new law, these substances will carry the same penalties as marijuana.
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