Illegal Spice use leads to discharge, NJP

  • Published
  • By 501st Combat Support Wing Public Affairs
RAF ALCONBURY, United Kingdom --  Seven Airmen were recently discharged from the 501st Combat Support Wing for use and/or possession of the mixture of herbs with psychoactive effects commonly known as Spice.

During recent Commander's Calls, Col. Brian Kelly, 501st CSW commander, emphasized the Air Force's zero-tolerance policy for drug use.

"Drug use is contrary to good order and discipline and runs counter to the responsibility entrusted to all Airmen," Colonel Kelly said.

The seven Airmen were discharged following an investigation by the Office of Special Investigations. OSI agents interviewed dozens of witnesses and ultimately the suspects. Based on those interviews, OSI seized several computers and smart phones from the suspects. These items provided corroborating evidence that ultimately finalized the investigation.

Based on the evidence, and at the direction of the commander, legal action was taken against the Airmen, including non-judicial punishment and administrative discharge from the Air Force.

"Because of their drug use, these individuals received a general discharge," said Capt. Adam Olsen, 501st CSW deputy Staff Judge Advocate. "A general discharge means they lost access to benefits and entitlements, to include losing all G.I. Bill benefits."

"Airmen who use Spice or other synthetic drugs risk losing more than their careers or their benefits when they use synthetic drugs," Captain Olsen said. "Depending on the circumstances, they also risk being imprisoned."

Use of Spice violates the Air Force ban on the use and possession of any substance, other than alcohol or tobacco, which is ingested to alter mood or function as set forth in AFI 44-120 Military Drug Demand Reduction Program. Violations of the ban are punishable under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for disobeying a lawful general order or regulation.

"Spice is mistakenly perceived by some Airmen as a legal or safe alternative to marijuana," said Dr. Aaron Jacobs, the Air Force Drug Testing program manager. "Additional harmful effects are still unknown, so individuals are taking significant risks to their health when they use Spice."

Recently, the Air Force Drug Testing Lab began conducting urinalysis testing for the chemicals used to make Spice.

The use or possession of Spice has been illegal for 501st Airmen since 2008, and this prohibition has been continued most recently, when Colonel Kelly issued an order continuing the ban of Spice and other synthetic drugs.

Spice is sold in certain shops in the United Kingdom, and while it may be legal for U.K. citizens, it is illegal for all U.S. servicemembers to use or possess.

"Just because an item is sold in the U.K. does not make it legal for Airmen to purchase or use," said Captain Olsen. "Regardless of personnel status (leave, TDY, present for duty, etc.), use or possession of synthetic drugs is illegal."

Colonel Kelly added, "We will continue to protect our Airmen and their families from the dangers presented by drug use of all kinds."

(Some information provided by Air Force Surgeon General Public Affairs)