Pennsylvania man faces synthetic marijuana charge in Mississippi County

CHARLESTON, Mo. -- A Pennsylvania man was arrested in Mississippi County on charges of possessing synthetic marijuana.

Adam Crawford, 22, of Evans City, Pa., has been charged with possession of a controlled substance of a synthetic cannabinoid and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, according to Mississippi County Sheriff Keith Moore.

According to reports, the artificial marijuana, with street names such as K2, K4, Cloud 9 and Sex on the Beach, was discovered in the vehicle during a traffic stop.

Synthetic marijuana is an herbal substance that is sold as an incense or smoking material that laws have recently prohibited.

"These drugs are in some ways more dangerous than the marijuana that is grown," Moore said. "The chemicals and ingredients used are not guaranteed to be produced in any certain manner, and the unknown chemicals involved are often times more dangerous than the naturally grown herb."

Seizures and hospitalizations due to usage of the drug have been reported, he said.

Crawford is being held at the Mississippi County Detention Center with a bond of $25,000.

Pertinent address:

Charleston, MO