Printer-friendly version
By Miriam Raftery
November 24, 2024 (San Diego) – Drug testing on “Polka Dot” labeled chocolate bars seized back in September by narcotics detectives from the Sheriff’s department from a Chula Vista business found that the products had been adulterated with several controlled substances, including Amanita Muscaria mushrooms, better known as “magic mushrooms,” a strong psychedelic drug and hallucinogen.
Deputies and Calif. Dept. of Public Health officers returned to the site and seized over 95,000 chocolate bars—more than seven tons, with an estimated street value of over $3 million.
The Polka Dot brand has a history of being altered and counterfeit by various manufacturers, a press release from the San Diego Sheriff’s department states.
Specifically, the San Diego County Regional Crime Laboratory conducted testing on the products. The testing determined the product contained the following controlled substances: 4-Acetoxy-DET (4-Acetoxy-N, N-diethltryptamine) and 4-Hydroxy DET (4-Hydroxy-N, N-diethyltryptamine). Diethyltryptamine is listed in Health and Safety Code section 11054 as a controlled substance. DET is similar to the more commonly known Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) a strong psychedelic drug and hallucinogen.
Sheriff Kelly Martinez stated: "I am incredibly proud of the work being done and the partnership and collaboration in removing these dangerous products from distribution in the community. The California Department of Public Health and the Sheriff's Marijuana Enforcement Team are committed to working to keep our communities safe. Products which are mislabeled and sold as safe to consumers, but in reality, are laced with dangerous levels of THC, psilocybin and other dangerous drugs are a threat to public safety and to consumers. I appreciate this most recent investigation. This industry is driven by high profits and organized criminal activity, and we will remain vigilant in protecting our communities from this threat."
Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer also stated: “The California Department of Public Health appreciates the joint investigative work conducted with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office. Partnerships like this play a big role in the CDPH’s efforts to protect the public from foods that may be unsafe.”
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information related to the sales of these products are encouraged to email: Marijuanaenforcement@sdsheriff.gov.
Comments
WOW!