K2 is a synthetic form of cannabis. Also known as “Spice”, K2 is a mixture of leafy materials that have been sprayed with a lab-synthesized liquid chemical made to mimic the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the psychoactive ingredient in naturally grown marijuana. Users of K2 usually smoke it in the same ways they do natural marijuana. It can also be baked into foods like brownies or made into a tea.
What Happens If I Use K2?
There are many brands of synthetic cannabis. Some street and shelf names you may see are Black Mamba, Yucatan, Fire, Moon Rocks, Zombie World, Dark Night and Hawaiian Hybrid. There are several other names as well.
People who have used K2 report experiencing similar effects to using natural marijuana, including elevated mood, relaxation, and altered perception. The effects can be enhanced because of the synthesized nature of the chemicals. Some people have reported feeling paranoid or anxious, while others have reported experiencing hallucinations.
Is K2 Dangerous?
K2 is potentially toxic. Some of the compounds used in the K2 are 100 times more potent than the natural forms. In many cases, the origins of the chemical compounds are unknown, so the purity and composition is uncertain. Some K2 products may contain heavy metals that can be poisonous to humans at certain levels. Regular users of K2 report having withdrawal symptoms.
What Are Texas’ Laws on K2?
Back in 2011, the Texas Legislature created Penalty Group 2A which made possessing K2 illegal. The law specified which chemical compounds, found in K2, were banned. To get around the law, the chemists who manufactured K2 changed the molecular compound in the mixture. K2 on the market today does not include the banned chemical compounds. Therefore, it is technically legal to sell K2 that does not have those substances in the formulation.
Can You Be Arrested for Possessing K2?
The answer is yes. By observation alone, the police do not know what substances are contained in the K2 you are carrying. They have the right to arrest anyone suspected of having the illegal substances known to be present in some forms of K2. If they find it on someone, that person is going to jail.
Can You be Prosecuted for Possessing K2?
The answer is yes. If the District Attorney’s office determines there is a case, you can be prosecuted. Now, the chances of being prosecuted for possessing K2 is very low, since the current formulation of this substance is legal, at least according to state law.
There is one thing of which K2 users need to be aware: To counter the problems with the current Texas law on K2, many cities and counties in the state are taking action to ban it and similar products within their jurisdictions. So, even if the state law is not heavily enforced at this point, users can still face local prosecution for possession.
I’ve Been Arrested for Possessing K2. What Should I Do?
It is critical that you hire an attorney that is knowledgeable about K2. Amarillo criminal lawyer Jarrett Johnston of Stockard, Johnston, Brown, Netardus & Doyle, P.C. has intensely studied the law on K2 and the repercussions for possessing and using it. This is a new, complex subject that no one should try to defend themselves against without legal counsel.
This law firm does not promote the use or sale of this substance in any way. However, we do promote the right of every defendant to have qualified legal counsel.