Mansfield Police Inspector welcomes a review on Spice, after police chiefs call for it to be reclassified

A Mansfield Police Inspector has said that he welcomes a review on spice, after Police and Crime Commissioners called for the drug to be reclassified as Class A.
Inspector Nick ButlerInspector Nick Butler
Inspector Nick Butler

An open letter has been sent to Home Office ministers, signed by all 20 Conservative crime commissioners, calling for the dangerous ‘zombie’ drug spice to be reclassified as a Class A drug.

Inspector Nick Butler, Mansfield’s Neighbourhood Policing Inspector, said he would welcome any review of the drug that is being considered.

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Inspecter Butler added: “Spice is a very dangerous drug, and it’s having a terrible effect on some people in Mansfield.

“A number of users I’ve spoken with say the effects feel worse that crack cocaine or heroin. I do welcome any review that is being considered.

“Spice is currently a Class B drug, the same category as cannabis, but due to spice being synthetic, users have no way of knowing its concentration.

“Please speak with children and make it clear spice is very dangerous and not to be experimented with.

“It’s very risky, and can lead to cardiac arrest.

“We will continue our clampdown on dealers.”

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If the drug is classified as Class A, it will be in the same category as heroin, cocaine and ecstasy, and carry a much harsher sentence for those who use or deal the former ‘legal high’.

Spice is a synthetic cannabinoid designed to mimic the effects of cannabis.

However, spice affects the respiratory system, and can lead to users being slumped over in a ‘zombie’ state.

Paddy Tipping, Nottinghamshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “These new substances are a major issue right across the country and what’s required for reclassification may help prompt co-ordinated action across all the partners. Put bluntly, this is a public health issue.

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“I know that Nottinghamshire Police have been working hard to tackle these problems, successfully executing warrants targeting dealers. In fact, there has recently been a successful prosecution where Mamba valued at £500,000 was recovered.”

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