A New Spin to an Old Drug, Resembling Candy

It’s been reported a new kind of methamphetamine has hit the streets in several states. The meth, which is usually a white powder, is now being colored with light pink and can look a little like “pop rocks” candy.

It has been found in several states including California. Asked if he had seen it in La Cañada, school resource officer for La Cañada High School Todd Sams said, “No, I have heard of it though. We are aware of it.”

Deputy Steve Toley, student resource officer for Rosemont Middle School, is also aware of the new spin on an old drug and, although it has yet to reach the area, he advises parents to be aware.

“Parents should know it is out there,” Toley said.

Both Sams and Toley said the new strawberry meth is more of a “marketing tool” and a possible way to avoid detection by law enforcement and parents.

“It can also be used to mask the smell,” Sams said.

He said that because of the candy-like appearance, it may not be immediately apparent to anyone looking for an illegal substance.

Meth, generally a white powdered substance, has grown in popularity as a drug that has been marketed as everything from an “energy boost” to a weight loss drug. The reality of the extent of this drug problem hit home a couple of years ago when eight students at Rosemont Middle School were found to have used meth on campus. Since then the resource officers and administration have continued to educate parents on the dangers of this drug. On one occasion representatives of the Crescenta Valley Sheriff’s Station narcotics division met with PTA members at Mountain Avenue Elementary to show the paraphernalia used with various drugs and displayed several before and after photos of meth addicts.

The agents told the parents that although many drugs come and go in popularity, meth is still the most used. With the new candy-like appearance, authorities with the Drug Enforcement Agency are concerned a younger market is being targeted.

Toley and Sams both warn parents to be aware of their child’s activities and their friends.

“A parent loves and wants to trust their child but if they are in any doubt and they do not want to confront their [daughter or son] they should contact the us [CV Sheriff’s Station],” Sams said.