(COLUMBUS, Ohio) -- Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine announced today that the owners of four Highland County businesses found selling synthetic drugs must now pay fines totaling $10,000 that will be used for the prevention and investigation of synthetic drug use.
A Highland County judge has found the owners of the following businesses in violation of the Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act:
- North End Mini Mart, 950 North Washington Street, Greenfield, Ohio
- East Main Mini Mart, 489 East Main Street, Hillsboro, Ohio
- West End Sunoco, 1006 West Jefferson Street, Greenfield, Ohio
- Rocky Road Mini Mart, 1111 North Shore Drive, Hillsboro, Ohio
"The defendants knew exactly what they were selling, even though they tried to pass the synthetic drugs off as legal products," said Attorney General DeWine. "We are happy that we can put the settlement funds to good use in an effort to stop the sale and abuse of these hazardous drugs."
Investigations by the Highland County Sheriff's Office revealed that the synthetic substances were being sold as "incense" at the four locations. Unlike typical incense, which is defined as material used to produce a fragrant odor when burned, the products sold by the businesses were found to be coated with synthetic compounds that, when consumed, mimic the psychoactive and physiological effects of marijuana.
The judge ordered that the defendants must pay the Ohio Attorney General's Office $2,500 in each case. The funds will be used for education about the use and danger of synthetic drugs and the investigation of and enforcement for violations in relation to synthetic drug production, distribution, and possession.
The defendants are also now prohibited from selling incense, potpourri, and other novelty products.
-30-
Media Contacts:
Dan Tierney: 614-466-3840
Jill Del Greco: 614-466-3840