04-08.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read_1498c5356f63bb7a58c579acee818a9a.pdf

OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1...

OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Contents: Depressants: Pg. 2 Heroin/Diamorphine Pg. 5 Methadone Pg. 6 Dihydrocodeine Pg. 6 Benzodiazepines Introduction Stimulants: This pre-read is supplied to provide you with Pg. 8 Cocaine some general information regarding the Pg. 10 MDMA different drugs which will be referred to in the subsequent lesson. Pg. 12 Amphetamines It will also be useful as a point of reference Pg. 14 Cannabis when you are dealing with drug related offences in the future. Hallucinogens: Illicit drugs can effectively be classified as either a Depressant or a Stimulant. Pg. 16 LSD Pg. 17 Magic Mushrooms Pg. 18 Ketamine Pg. 19 Psychoactive Substances Pg. 20 Power of Search - In Brief Pg. 22 Presumptive testing Pg. 23 Cannabis Cultivations & Drug Factories Pg. 24 Classification of Drugs 1 th Amended 25 April 2025 v.4 OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Depressants The most common depressants you will come across are opiates, which can be divided into two groups, those occurring naturally from the Opium poppy such as heroin and morphine and those which are synthetically produced such as methadone and dihydrocodeine. Opium is the ‘dried’ milk of the poppy, which contains both morphine and codeine. Heroin is derived from morphine to produce a painkiller six to seven times more powerful. Heroin/Diamorphine Heroin is the most widely abused depressant that you will encounter on a frequent basis and it is usually found as a brown/light brown powder. It can also be referred to as Diamorphine. Heroin is a Class A Drug and is abused in the following ways:- Snorted/Sniffed Smoked Injected intravenously (jagging) Injected sub-cutaneously (skin popping) The most common ways to abuse heroin are by smoking and intravenous injection. When smoked, the heroin is placed on foil which is heated from the underside and then inhaled, through the mouth, using a home- made tube called a “tooter”. This was historically called ‘chasing the dragon’ but is more commonly referred to today as “tooting”. The effects when smoking heroin can be expected to come on as quickly as after an injection, but are less strong. 2 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read People who inject this drug use two methods:- Firstly by intravenous injection. By using this method the user obtains instant effect as the drug is injected direct into the person’s blood supply. This method is referred to as ‘jagging’ and initial effects are termed as a ‘rush’. It is this which the addict seeks and after a period of time the addict will built up a tolerance of the drug which will result in them having to take more and more of the drug to seek the same effect. Addicts will usually alter the point of injection as overuse of a particular point will result in damage as the vein begins to break down. Secondly by ‘subcutaneous injection’. This is referred to as ‘skin popping’ where the user will inject the drug just under the skin. As the drug is not going straight into the user’s bloodstream the effects are not as intense. When sniffed or snorted, heroin produces a less intense effect than when it is injected. The large majority of heroin is illegally manufactured and imported. When sold at street level it is likely to have been adulterated (cut) with a variety of other powders, which can cause problems when injecting. In its purest form, heroin is a white powder, but street heroin is brown/light brown in colour, depending upon what has been used to cut the drug. The most common low level street deal recovered is a “tenner bag” deal, called so as it costs ten pounds (£10) to purchase. These deals are referred to as “wraps” or “bags” depending on what the drug is wrapped in. “Wraps” are best described as small paper packages which have usually been made from squares that have been cut from magazines/catalogues. Glossy magazine/catalogue pages are less porous than normal paper, and are ideal for containing the drug. By selling the drug in this manner secretion of the package is made easier. If sold on in plastic bags, the required amount of the drug is placed in small food type plastic bags commonly referred to in most areas of Scotland as “Butchy bags”. They are so named because these types of bags are very similar to those found within traditional butcher shops. The drug is contained tightly in the corner of the bag which is knotted and cut just above the knot. 3 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Effects of Use Heroin is an extremely addictive drug and medical assistance is normally sought in order to withdraw from usage. Users will initially obtain an intense feeling of euphoria when abusing the drug however this euphoria is soon replaced by addiction and the user will soon use the drug to prevent body cravings. Getting the next fix can dominate the user's life. Heroin users will normally initially abuse the drug by smoking, however as tolerance develops, they more often than not begin to inject so as to maximize the effect. Users of heroin will have a sluggish/lethargic appearance as the drug causes the body functions to slow down by depressing the activity of the nervous system. This stage is commonly referred to on the street as “gouching”. Overdose when using the drug is common and will result in unconsciousness, coma and death from respiratory failure. The chance of an overdose is greatly increased if alcohol or other drugs such as benzodiazepines are used at the same time. Long terms effects of intravenous injection can damage veins, cause gangrene, blood clots and puts the user at risk of contracting tetanus, hepatitis or HIV through the sharing of dirty needles. Repeated snorting of heroin can damage the lining of the nose and there is always the danger of impure drugs, which have been mixed with unknown substances. Users who snort/sniff the drug are often long term users who can no longer inject due to the condition of their veins. An addict faced with sudden withdrawal will suffer flu-like symptoms such as aches, tremors, muscular spasms and sweating. Withdrawal can be very hard due to physical and psychological dependence. These symptoms are known as “rattling”. When people have been off the drug for some time, their tolerance decreases and death commonly results from a user re-taking the same amount of drug they used before they stopped, resulting in an overdose. Addicts released from prison are extremely susceptible to death from overdose. 4 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Indications of Abuse Due to the fact that heroin will normally consume the life of the addict to the extent that personal cleanliness and care become secondary, they will normally have an unkempt appearance. Before taking the drug they may show signs of withdrawal and after taking the drug, signs of abuse (detailed above). Heroin users will normally carry their “works” with them at all times and these include:- Hypodermic syringe - Care should be taken when dealing with such items as risk of injury and contamination is high. The syringe should, where possible, be placed in some container to make it safe. Citric Acid - Small amounts of citric acid are used to prepare heroin for injection. A Spoon - This is used to heat the powder form of the drug to make it into a liquid prior to injection. Methadone Methadone is a Class A Drug. It is a synthetic opiate and a prescription only drug which is prescribed to heroin addicts to eliminate the addiction and stabilise their chaotic lifestyles. It is a green liquid and is subject to strict regulations of use which can be summarised as follows: Some users are prescribed the drug on a weekly/fortnightly basis and can take their prescription home where they can self-administer the drug as required on a daily basis. These users will have/should have shown the prescribing authority, over a long period of time, that they can be trusted with the drug. Other users are prescribed the drug on a daily basis where they attend a designated pharmacy and collect the prescription for that day only. The amount prescribed must be taken on the day specified on the bottle (except Saturday when users are administered a double dose to cover the Sunday pharmacy closure). The more chaotic users are prescribed the drug on a “supervised” daily basis and they must attend a designated pharmacy where they are administered the drug under the strict supervision of the pharmacist who remains present when they consume the drug. Methadone is much sought after on the illicit drugs market. 5 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Dihydrocodeine Dihydrocodeine is a Class B Drug. It is a synthetic opiate and is a prescription only drug administered for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. It is much sought after on the illicit drugs market especially by persons addicted to other opiates such as Heroin. When used illicitly the drug comes in tablet form and is abused orally. When abused it causes slurred speech, drowsiness and disorientation. It is not an offence to possess dihydrocodeine if you have a prescription. However, any incident involving unauthorised supply is a contravention of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Benzodiazepines The most commonly abused benzodiazepines are diazepam (Valium) and temazepam which are Class C drugs. Benzodiazepines are synthetic drugs that are manufactured for medical use to treat anxiety, depression and insomnia. They are also commonly prescribed over a short period of time for alcohol and drug withdrawal. They are manufactured for medical use in the form of capsules and tablets, and are the most commonly prescribed mood altering drugs in the UK. Benzodiazepines are addictive and are widely abused illicitly within Scotland by a broad range of users. Some users are simply addicted to benzodiazepines. Heroin addicts will abuse the drug to augment their addiction or to assist with withdrawal symptoms if they cannot afford or get access to Heroin. Benzodiazepines also appeal to stimulant drug users because of their sedative effects. On leaving pubs/clubs/parties, stimulant users will frequently use benzodiazepines to “come down” from the effects of their stimulant of choice. When used illicitly these drugs come in tablet form and are taken orally. 6 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read The Effects of Benzodiazepines The sedative properties of benzodiazepines calm the user and slow them down mentally. When taken in high doses users will become drowsy and lethargic and it will impair their concentration. They can cause short-term memory loss, lower inhibitions and users can become dependent; especially if they rely on the drug to calm them or help them sleep. Tolerance can develop when being used for medical or non-medical use. The effects of withdrawal can be unpleasant and long lasting. They can include inability to sleep, anxiety, nausea and sometimes convulsions and mental confusion. Psychological dependence is common in long-term users and a life without the drug may seem very daunting which can lead to panic attacks. Users sometimes become confused, irritable and anxious and unable to carry on with their normal routine after discontinuing the drug. Stimulants You will encounter stimulant type drugs on a regular basis. These drugs are commonly referred to as “recreational drugs” and are used and abused socially by a large cross section of society. The most common stimulants that you will come across whilst on duty will be cocaine, amphetamine and varieties of MDMA which are more commonly known as “Ecstasy”. Amphetamine based drugs were initially synthesized between the two World Wars and used by the military to give soldiers more energy and increase alertness. Amphetamines were commonly prescribed during the 50’s and 60’s for depression. A known side effect was the ability to help weight loss by suppressing appetite, however due to other side effects the majority of brands were removed from the market. 7 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Cocaine Cocaine is a Class A drug. It is derived from the cocoa plant and has been abused for centuries by the indigenous people where the plant is grown mainly around Central and South America. In its illicit form it is normally found as a white coloured powder, cocaine hydrochloride, which is abused by sniffing/snorting into the nasal passages. The cocaine is placed upon a non-porous surface such as a mirror or piece of glass, chopped into lines before being snorted using any type of small tube or rolled up note. When sniffing or snorting drugs the effects are almost instantaneous as the drug is introduced into the lining of the lungs. The effects of cocaine can last 20-30 minutes and often leaves the user craving more of the drug. Cocaine may also be injected but this is unusual and dangerous. Cocaine will often be adulterated with other powders at every stage in the supply chain. This in turn can lead to very low purity levels. HMCE report purity levels on importations at around 65% - 80%. When recovered by police it can have a purity level as low as 5%. Powders such as benzocaine, lignocaine and phenacetine are the most common adulterants found in cocaine. These are pharmaceutical products and a licence is needed to purchase them, however they are commonly purchased over the internet and used in the illicit drugs market. Effects of Use Cocaine is a powerful stimulant which affects the nervous system and generates a strong feeling of euphoria and alertness and can induce a feeling of great physical strength and mental capacity. It may also suppress hunger, fatigue and pain but may cause anxiety, agitation, paranoia and hallucinations. Research has shown that if users of cocaine also abuse alcohol at the same time it may lead to them becoming aggressive/violent. 8 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Snorting/sniffing the drug over a period of time will cause damage to the nose. Tolerance of this drug can become quite high and it also may induce physical and/or mental dependence. Indications of Abuse The following are indications of abuse of cocaine:- 1. Paper wraps/self seal plastic bags bearing white/off white residue 2. Mirrors or non-porous surfaces 3. Snorting tubes/rolled up bank notes 4. Razor blades/credit cards-used for lining up the drug before snorting Crack Cocaine “Crack” is a class A drug and can be easily created from “cocaine hydrochloride”. Albeit a type of cocaine, “crack” is not targeted at nor commonly used in the Scottish “recreational” scene. The drug is generally used by those attracted to opiate drugs such as heroin. “Crack” comes in “raisin” sized rock form and is smoked in a pipe or other smoking utensil. Effects of Use “Crack” is similar to cocaine in its effects, although the effects of “crack” are much more intense and extreme. The effects of crack cocaine can be felt by the user almost immediately and last for about 10 minutes. Feelings of well-being, exhilaration, a loss of appetite, increased confidence and an indifference to pain and fatigue are experienced by the user. “Crack” users can also suffer from hallucinations and paranoia. Crack does produce a strong physical dependency and heavy use can lead to potentially fatal heart conditions and severe respiratory illnesses. With regular heavy use, increasingly unpleasant symptoms occur such as convulsions. 9 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Euphoria is replaced by an uncomfortable state of restlessness, over-excitability and feelings of nausea. With continued use this can lead to paranoid psychosis, which can be irreversible and permanent. Regular users may appear chronically nervous, excitable and paranoid and often use heroin to dull the craving caused by the use of crack. This can lead to an addiction to heroin. An overdose of crack can be fatal. MDMA MethylenedioxymethylAmphetamine (MDMA) is a Class A drug and is more commonly known as ecstasy, E or eccies. Whilst the appearance of the drugs is normally tablet form, the colour and quality are varied. The tablets almost always have a motif embossed upon them and these motifs generally relate to a current trend so that the drug is more attractive to its targeted market. The motifs include cartoon characters, designer brands such as Playboy and Versace, vehicle manufacturers such as Ferrari and Mitsubishi and any other design which may be attractive to users at the relevant time. These motifs have no bearing on the quality of the drug. MDMA increases the user's perception to sound and vision and has mood elevating effects which appeals to the “dance” music scene. Effects of Use The effects of MDMA will normally be felt between twenty minutes – one hour after taking the drug and the effects can last up to four-six hours depending on the purity of the drug and the tolerance of the user. At low dosages, MDMA combines the stimulant effect of amphetamine with the euphoria of LSD, but without strong hallucinogenic side effects. 10 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read The stimulant effect raises blood pressure and heart rate. Most users feel an initial rush followed by feelings of nervousness, tingling sensations, dry mouth, tightening of the jaw, nausea, sweating, and often ‘butterflies in the stomach’. Users feel more energetic and can lose their appetite, but feel calm and happy with a greater awareness of sound, surroundings and closeness to others. The body’s energy stores become depleted through lack of eating, sleeping, and increased demands on the system, which results in the user often feeling tired and depressed for days after using it. With this feeling of tiredness users might also feel irritable, anxious and restless. There is a chance that users may experience a bad trip and flashbacks may also be experienced causing severe anxiety, panic and confusion. There is a risk of overheating and dehydration if users dance energetically without taking breaks or drinking enough non-alcoholic fluids. There have been deaths directly attributed to taking ecstasy. High doses in some cases can produce delirium, panic, hallucinations and feelings of paranoia and aggression. Effects of Long Term Use A user may feel more energetic, cheerful and confident, but because of these effects there is a high risk of a psychological dependence. Tolerance can develop and to maintain the desired effect, regular users have to take more tablets. When users eventually stop they are likely to feel depressed, lethargic and extremely hungry. MDMA users simply postpone the need for rest and food, they do not replace it. Heavy use can put a great deal of strain on the heart. There is a risk of damaging blood vessels or heart failure, especially among people with existing high blood pressure or heart trouble and amongst people who take strenuous exercise whilst using the drug. An overdose can be fatal. Long-term users who take high doses may develop delusions, hallucinations and feelings of paranoia. This can lead to mental illness. 11 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read In recent years MDMA powder has become more prevalent within Scotland. In this form it can be abused like Amphetamine or Cocaine. Note:- In recent years a large number of tablets seized by the police have subsequently been found to contain no MDMA but other substances, such as BZP, which at this time is legal to possess. On seizing tablets thought to be MDMA the enquiry officer must interview the suspect and ascertain what they believe the tablet to be. Should the suspect intimate that the tablet contains MDMA and subsequent analysis indicates otherwise a charge of Section 19 (attempt to commit a crime) would be appropriate. Amphetamines Amphetamine is a Class B drug and is more commonly referred to as “speed” or “fast”. Amphetamines are purchased and abused in the following manner:- The most common way to purchase Amphetamine is in a white/off white powder which is purchased in recognised street deals. The drug is normally taken by mixing within a drink, rubbed on the gums, eaten or snorted/sniffed. Another common way to take the drug is by taking a “bomb” which is an amount of amphetamine wrapped in paper and swallowed along with a drink. In “paste” form. When users refer to amphetamine as “paste” this infers that the drug is of a higher quality. This type of amphetamine is wet to touch and will have a much more pungent smell. It can be abused as detailed above. In tablet form. These tablets are commonly referred to as “speeders” however they are identical to MDMA tablets and will normally be sold, purchased and abused as MDMA. 12 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Amphetamine sold on the street will have a purity level of anything between 1%-7% whereas “paste” will be around 10%-15%. The drug is adulterated with a variety of bulking agents such as glucose and dried milk which in turn can determine the resultant colour of the drug. It is difficult to visually differentiate between amphetamine and cocaine however amphetamine has a very distinct smell similar to that of “marzipan”. Amphetamine can also be injected, however this is rare and when prepared in this manner it becomes a Class A drug. Effects of Use Amphetamines are stimulants and have similar effects to that of MDMA without the jaw tightening. Long term users frequently have very bad teeth as a result of this drug being abused orally. Indications of Abuse The following are indications of abuse of amphetamines:- 1. Paper wraps/self seal plastic bags bearing white/off white residue 2. Mirrors or non-porous surfaces 3. Snorting tubes/rolled up bank notes 4. Razor blades/credit cards - used for lining up the drug before snorting. 13 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Cannabis/Cannabis Resin Cannabis is a natural substance derived from the cannabis sativa plant, which grows throughout the world. In recent years there has been a large increase in the amount of “home grown” cannabis being recovered within Scotland. This cannabis is a Class B drug and is available in three main forms:- 1. Cannabis. This could best be described as the dried buds/flowers of the plants. Leaf material is often included to bulk out the deal and make up the weight. 2. Cannabis Resin. This is more commonly known as hash or hashish. Resin is extracted from cannabis plants and compressed into large blocks known as nine ounce bars/quarter kilo bars. Once in the UK these bars can be further sub-divided and sold on in recognised deals. 3. Cannabis Oil. Cannabis in this form is not commonly recovered within Scotland. Cannabis is one of the most commonly used illegal drugs in the UK. The Use of Cannabis Cannabis and cannabis resin are normally abused by smoking either in a hand rolled cigarette called a “joint” or “spliff” or in a pipe or other smoking utensil such as a “water pipe” or “bong”. It can also be brewed into a drink or put into food such as cakes and biscuit's. Cannabis can also be smoked on its own. Cannabis Oil is normally spread onto tobacco and smoked in hand rolled cigarettes. The Effects of Cannabis Effects depend largely upon the expectations, motivations and mood of the user, the amount used and the circumstances. Cooking and eating cannabis can make the effects more intense and harder to control. 14 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Getting ‘stoned’ on cannabis makes most users feel relaxed, talkative and giggly but can make some people feel very anxious or paranoid. It can heighten the senses, especially when it comes to colour, taste and music. The effects from smoking cannabis are fairly instant and can last from 1 to 4 hours depending on the amount used. High doses can cause mild hallucinations and sensory distortions. Nausea and vomiting can occur when an inexperienced user tries too much at once. Cannabis may leave the user with a very dry mouth, feeling tired, lacking energy and craving food. It can also lead to short-term memory loss, affect co-ordination and the ability to concentrate. Smoking cannabis can lead to bronchitis and other respiratory disorders. Mixing it with tobacco can result in nicotine dependency and all the effects of tobacco smoking. Cannabis has a higher concentration of chemicals in the smoke than cigarettes. Cannabis is currently used in a number of pharmaceutical products for the treatment of medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis Indications of Abuse The following are signs of abuse of cannabis:- Hand rolled cigarette ends. They are usually thicker than ordinary hand rolled cigarettes as a cardboard filter (roach) is present to counter the hot smoke of the drug. Cigarette packets with torn flaps (used to construct filters “roaches” for cannabis cigarettes). “Hash Burns” or “bombers” on users’ clothing/furniture/car seat. A common problem with smoking joints is for the tobacco to burn quicker than larger pieces of resin which in turn means the resin will fall from the “joint” onto the items detailed above and cause small burns. A heat stained blade. This may show traces of the drug as the blade is heated to allow the cutting of the cannabis resin to be made easier. Pieces of cling film - the drug is usually packed in this way to preserve its strength. 15 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Hallucinogens Hallucinogens are no longer widely abused within the Scottish drugs scene and are only occasionally recovered. The three main types which will be recovered on the street are the synthetic substance LSD, the natural magic mushrooms and ketamine. LSD LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) is a synthetic substance and is a Class A drug. The minute amounts of LSD sufficient for a ‘trip’ are usually absorbed onto ¼ inch squares of paper often with a picture on one side. These are put onto the tongue and absorbed. The picture does not denote the likely effect or strength of the drug and it is likely that no square has exactly the same dosage of the drug as another and as such the effects can be unpredictable. Often substances sold as LSD contain none at all (see Section 19 offences). Note:- Extreme care must be exercised when handling this drug as it may impregnate through the skin pores, placing the handler in danger of experiencing a ‘trip’. Effects of Short Term Use A trip begins after about 45 minutes of taking LSD and can last 8 to 12 hours. The experience or ‘trip’ varies depending upon the users mood, who they are with and how much is taken. Visual and sound distortions, intensified colours and changes in sense of time and place are common. Because such tiny amounts are needed for a trip, it can be difficult to fully control the amount taken, and therefore, the duration and intensity of the trip. Experiences are hard to describe, partly because they vary, but also because they can differ from the normal way of perceiving things. Emotional reactions may include heightened self-awareness and mystical or ecstatic experiences. A feeling of being outside one’s body is commonly reported. The user may also feel hot, sick or dizzy. Unpleasant reactions (‘bad trips’) may include depression, dizziness, disorientation, fear, paranoia and panic. These effects can vary if the user is unstable, anxious, depressed or in hostile or unsuitable surroundings. A bad trip is not predictable and may happen at any time when LSD is taken. 16 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read It can complicate mental health problems and a bad trip can be terrifying. Accidents may happen whilst users are hallucinating. LSD is taken to experience its psychedelic effect and is normally used in a casual recreational fashion. Effects of Long Term Use Users build up a tolerance to LSD relatively quickly and experience a different trip every time. LSD does not cause physical dependence, although some users may have a psychological dependence on the drug and can leave the user feeling out of touch with the real world. Brief but vivid flashbacks of part of a previous trip can occur, especially after frequent use. These can occur between two weeks and two years after the last dose and can leave the user feeling disorientated and distressed. Magic Mushrooms Mushrooms which contain psilocin are a Class A drug. The main type is the Liberty Cap (Psilocybe Semilanceata), which contains the hallucinogenic chemicals psilocybin and psilocin. In Scotland they are normally best picked during September and October. They can be eaten raw or cooked and can be preserved by drying. Magic mushrooms can also be stewed into a tea. A ‘trip’ tends to last about 4 hours. Distinguishing hallucinogenic mushrooms from poisonous and sometimes deadly ones can be very difficult. This can be the greatest danger. Effects of Short Term Use Magic mushrooms have a similar effect to an LSD ‘trip’ in that the sense of movement and time Speeds up or slows down. Colours, objects and sound may become distorted. The trip is often milder and shorter than an LSD trip but is very dependent upon the mood and expectations of the user. At low doses users feel euphoric, very relaxed and ‘spaced-out’. 17 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read At high doses visual distortions and vivid hallucinations can occur. Hallucinogenic mushrooms may also cause vomiting, nausea and stomach pains. As with other hallucinogenic drugs ‘bad trips’ can also occur and may develop into a brief psychotic episode. This is most common after repeated doses or if the user is inexperienced, anxious or unhappy to start with. Effects of Long Term Use Tolerance rapidly develops and the desired effect is usually only achieved by increasing the amount consumed. Magic mushrooms can cause stomach pains, sickness and diarrhoea. There is a danger that consumption can complicate existing mental health problems. Paranoia is common, with user’s often needing reassurance. Flashbacks can also be a problem. Higher doses can increase the possibility of a ‘bad-trip’. Ketamine Ketamine is a Class B drug. It is a short-acting but powerful general anaesthetic which depresses the nervous system and causes a temporary loss of body sensation. It can be used for operating on humans and animals. Legally produced, ketamine comes in liquid form which is usually injected. The illegally produced version usually comes as a grainy white powder which is usually snorted but it may also be obtained as a tablet. In low doses it can have stimulant effects and in high doses it can have hallucinogenic effects. Effects of Short Term Use The short term effect of ketamine, known as a ‘trip’, will occur some 5-15 minutes after taking the drug. Usually the effects will last between 45 and 90 minutes, regardless of dosage. The experience can be much shorter if you have a high tolerance. Ketamine can cause dream-like states and hallucinations. Users report sensations ranging from a pleasant feeling of floating to being separated from their bodies. 18 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Some ketamine experiences involve a terrifying feeling of almost complete sensory detachment that is likened to a near-death experience, similar to a "bad trip" on LSD. Low-dose intoxication from ketamine results in impaired attention, learning ability, and memory. In high doses, ketamine can cause delirium, amnesia, impaired motor function, high blood pressure, depression, and potentially fatal respiratory problems. Effects of Long Term Use Long term use can induce flashbacks. There have also been suggestions that long-term users suffer damage to the memory and eyesight, as well as reducing attention span. It can also cause disruptions in consciousness and lead to neuroses or other mental disorders. Psychoactive Substances Psychoactive Substances are often designed to replicate the effect of illegal drugs, however, the chemical structure is usually different to the illegal drug they mimic which is often outwith the control of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. They are often sold in headshops and online and can be in pill, powder, liquid, crystal or herbal form. Retailers attempt to bypass legislation by selling their products as 'not fit for human consumption'. Packaging will often have a skull and crossbones and are sold as bath salts, incense or plant food. Effects of Use Psychoactive substances effects can be difficult to predict due to the unstable nature of the chemical structure of the drugs. However, they can replicate the effects of a hallucinogenic like LSD, a depressant like heroin or a stimulant like speed or cocaine. As psychoactive substances sales are unregulated there is no guarantee that different batches of the same product will contain the same dose or a drug or even the same drug. The huge variation of chemical structure makes medical responses to psychoactive substances use challenging. 19 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Health and Safety HS When searching for controlled substances officers must always consider their own safety in relation to personal injury from needles etc. They must also be aware that users/addicts will frequently conceal controlled drugs in areas of their body/ clothing which will not be easily found during a routine street stop/search. The searching officer should on every occasion consider the circumstances leading to the search before deciding how far the search will proceed. If intelligence or the circumstances indicate that the drugs may be well hidden then the Section 23 DETENTION entitles officers to take the suspect to a police station where a full, systematic and proper search can take place. Powers of Search - In Brief If a Constable has reasonable grounds to suspect that any person is in possession of a controlled drug in contravention of this Act or of any regulations made thereunder, the Constable can exercise powers under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and:- search that person, and detain him/her for the purpose of searching them; search any vehicle or vessel in which the Constable suspects that the drug may be found, and for that purpose require the person in control of the vehicle or vessel to stop it; seize and detain, for the purposes of proceedings under this Act, anything found in the course of the search which appears to the Constable to be evidence of an offence under this Act. The legislation is very clear as to police powers when dealing with people suspected to be in possession of controlled drugs, however police officers can sometimes become confused as to what can be construed as “reasonable ground to suspect”. This, in reality, is very simple if a common sense approach is taken. The circumstances of every incident will dictate the actions taken by the enquiry officers. 20 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Officers should consider the following mnemonic from the Stop & Search lesson to assist them when considering reasonable grounds for a search:- SHACKS Seen Heard Actions Conversation Knowledge Smell A number of incidents will and can be dealt with easily according to the facts in your possession such as:- a witness identifying someone in possession of a controlled drug a known drug user leaving the house of a known or suspected drug dealer on stopping a vehicle or approaching a group of people and detecting a smell associated with drugs misuse or seeing discarded paraphernalia. On every occasion detailed above an officer would have “reasonable grounds to suspect” and the use of Section 23 powers of search would be fully justified. On the other hand you will soon learn that a person having previous convictions for drugs offences does not automatically empower an officer to search that person under the legislation. This again can cause a degree of confusion with inexperienced officers. However a common sense approach will always prevail when dealing with such a situation. The functions of a Constable are very clear in that they are employed to “guard, watch and patrol so as to prevent the commission of offences” amongst other duties. 21 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read As a patrolling Constable it would be considered your duty to approach all known criminals, including drug users/dealers, and ascertain if any offences are being committed. When deciding to approach such a person it must be remembered that, without any other relevant information, grounds for a search under Section 23 do not exist at that point. If however on approaching that person they:- appear under the influence of a controlled substance they become furtive and attempt to conceal an item they attempt to swallow an item they run or attempt to run off then your powers under Section 23 may be considered Drugs misuse within society is common place and a large number of crimes/offences are committed by those under the influence of drugs or to fund drug addictions. In light of this, all officers must continually refresh their knowledge as to current trends within their beat. If after searching a suspect and drugs are recovered, an officer can deal with the matter in a number of ways: If the amount is considered for personal use only, the accused may be dealt with at the relevant locus by means of retaining the suspected controlled substance, an interview under caution and then being informed that they will be reported for the suspected offence. If the amount of drug recovered exceeds what would be considered for personal use or if the drug is sub-divided into multiple deals, then the suspect could be arrested under Section 1 Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2016 for being concerned in the sale/supply of controlled drugs. Conveyed to a police station and then carry out further enquiries. They may be arrested and charged. If the product recovered is suspected to be a psychoactive substance you should refer to your powers under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. 22 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Presumptive Testing Police Scotland has officers who are trained and authorised to carry out an initial ‘presumptive test’ on the majority of controlled drugs. Two suitably trained officers are required to carry out the test. On most occasions the results will be sufficient to allow officers to report the accused to the Procurator Fiscal however, the testing officer or an officer from the Drugs Expert Witness Unit (DEWU) will give advice should a substance require to be sent to the laboratory for identification. Following a ‘presumptive test’ and before the accused appears at court the substance must be analysed at the laboratory to confirm the identity and weight of the substance. Cannabis Cultivations and Drug Factories In recent years the UK has seen a huge increase in the amount of Cannabis Cultivations found within residential properties. These cultivations can be small operations where the plants grown are for personal use or they can be large scale cultivations operated by organised crime gangs who cultivate the drug for onward sale/supply and huge financial gain. Patrolling officers should be aware of the following signs:- House blinds/curtains continually closed. No apparent residents. Irregular callers at the property who don’t stay for any length of time. Strong, unusual smell. Sound of machinery (fans/extractor units) from within. Notification from power companies of excessive use of power relative to size of premises which could indicate cultivation of plants etc. The presence of specialist plant fertilisers, hydroponics equipment in premises. If such a cultivation is found by patrolling officers, they should immediately secure any occupants and thereafter treat the locus like any other major crime scene (Assess, Protect and Communicate). Cannabis Cultivations can be extremely dangerous environments and assistance should immediately be sought from experienced officers at the Drugs Expert Witness Unit (DEWU). 23 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read The abuse of drugs such as Methamphetamine, commonly known as “crystal meth” or “ice” is, at this time, rare within Scotland however this may change. The manufacture of this drug is extremely hazardous with the component parts being very volatile and liable to cause explosions and/or fire. Patrolling officers should immediately secure the scene and notify the control room. Classification of Drugs The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, states that a ‘controlled drug’ means any item for the time being specified in Schedule 2 of the Act. Schedule 2 divides controlled drugs into three classes according to their:- Toxic effect Prevalence of misuse Danger to society The Act creates three categories of controlled drugs; Class ‘A’, Class ’B’ and Class ‘C’. It is very important that you identify the Class to which a particular drug belongs, so that you can libel the correct charge against the accused. 24 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read Class of Drug Type Maximum Penalties Drug Class A Heroin For possession of (Diamorphine), Class A drugs:- Cocaine (including 7 years crack imprisonment cocaine), MDMA For possession with (ecstasy), intent Methadone, to supply, or LSD (a.k.a. "Acid"), supplying Class A Magic Mushrooms. drugs:- Life Imprisonment Amphetamines but only if prepared for injection. Class B Cannabis/Cannabis For possession of Resin, Class B drugs:- Amphetamine 5 years (speed), imprisonment and/or Dihydrocodeine but a fine only if possessed For possession with with an intent to intent supply or to be concerned in the to supply, or supply. It is not an supplying Class B offence to possess drugs:- this drug as long as 14 years you have a Imprisonment and/or prescription. a fine Ketamine. Class C Some Anabolic For possession of Steroids, Class C drugs:- Benzodiazepines 2 years such as Diazepam imprisonment and or and Temazepam. a fine For possession with intent to supply, or supplying Class C drugs:- 14 years imprisonment and or a fine. 25 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 4 Lesson 8.1 Controlled Drugs - Pre-Read For further information, use the resources shown below:- Controlled Drugs: Lesson Note http://scottish.police.uk/main.campaigns/DEA http://www.sad.org.uk Learning Log: How will what you have learned in this module impact your day-to- day role? Are there any skills or knowledge you would like to develop further following this module? End of Module 26 Scots Criminal Law: Introduction and Investigation OFFICIAL