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.
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.
