COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Michigan State Police are trying to track down the source of synthetic marijuana after three men overdosed in Branch County on the dangerous drug during the past week. One of those who used what is known as “Spice” or “K2” is reported in critical condition.
On Sunday, state troopers responded to Ovid Township for two brothers in their 20’s suspected of overdosing and both were taken to the hospital with one being airlifted to Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo and remains there in critical condition while his brother was treated and released.
On Monday, State Police went to a location in Batavia Township for another reported overdose on synthetic marijuana involving a 22-year old man. After he was treated at the Community Health Center of Branch County, he was taken to the County Jail and booked for a probation violation and possession of prescription narcotics.
The MSP Fifth District Tobacco Tax Team conducted inspections at various convenience stores throughout Branch County but the search failed to turn up any of the synthetic marijuana, which was banned in Michigan three years ago. State Police say serious side effect symptoms from ingesting “Spice” include anxiety attacks, an elevated heart rate, and possible seizures.
Distribution of “K2” can bring a felony charge while someone caught using the drug would be charged with a misdemeanor. Anyone with information on the source of the synthetic marijuana is asked to call the Michigan State Police Post, Coldwater Detachment at 269-558-0500.
