Lookout Mountain Judicial Drug Task Force Deputy Commander Patrick Doyle holds two containers of synthetic marijuana. The one on the left goes for $35, while the smaller version is sold for $20, according to Doyle.After Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal signed a law to ban all forms of synthetic marijuana last week, Lookout Mountain Drug Task Force agents delivered letters to all convenience stores in the area.
“We are collecting the unsold packets as a courtesy to our business owners,” the letter read.
The letter also warned owners that they could be criminally prosecuted if they sell spices or bath salts or any packets that mimic synthetic marijuana, said task force interim Commander Patrick Doyle.
In the last few months, agents went undercover and found that many of the convenience stores in Catoosa and Walker counties were selling fake pot, but the packets — flavored in bubble gum, blueberry and strawberry — had a disclaimer saying no ingredients were illegal.
The owners weren’t breaking the law because each year that lawmakers ban ingredients for synthetic marijuana, manufacturers find new ingredients that have a similar affect but aren’t banned, Doyle said.