A recent case involving Derrick Atkinson, a North Carolina resident, has shone a powerful spotlight on the scale and dangers of illegal opioid sales in the United States. Moreover, Atkinson’s arrest stands at the center of the DEA’s largest-ever uncovered opioid distribution ring. This case not only uncovers a multi-million dollar enterprise but also underscores...
Synthetic cannabinoids in Germany are making headlines after a groundbreaking study published in Drug Testing and Analysis by Hundertmark et al. (2025). This study lifts the veil on the alarming growth and complexity of these substances in products seized by authorities, highlighting potential health risks and regulatory gaps. Curious about what these findings mean for...
A Scottish Christian charity is making a significant impact in addiction recovery with its groundbreaking rock climbing recovery programme. East Ayrshire Churches Homelessness Action (EACHa), based in Kilmarnock, has partnered with Above Adventure to create the New Heights initiative. This addiction recovery climbing initiative combines outdoor activities with community support to help individuals build resilience...
Hemp-derived products have become big business in North Carolina. The state has earned a reputation as one of the most lenient when it comes to regulating psychoactive hemp products. Dispensaries, bars, and even pizza shops across North Carolina can legally sell hemp-based goods—even those producing a recreational high. However, new legislation may soon bring big...
In a watershed moment for cannabis accountability, the nation’s largest trial lawyer association has officially launched a dedicated litigation group targeting harmful practices in the marijuana industry. The American Association for Justice (AAJ) announced the formation of the Cannabis Injury Litigation Group on April 15, thereby marking a significant victory for advocacy organisations that have...
HALT Fentanyl Act Clears House Vote The U.S. House of Representatives has, therefore, taken a monumental step in addressing the opioid epidemic by passing the HALT Fentanyl Act with a resounding bipartisan vote of 312-108. Significantly, this pivotal legislation not only aims to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances...
The UK Home Office has unveiled a major expansion of its drug testing on arrest initiative. This move boosts efforts to curb substance abuse and its connection to criminal behaviour. Police officers will now be empowered to test individuals arrested for a wider range of offences. These include violent crimes, anti-social behaviour, and serious sexual...
Chronic Misconduct Unveiled in USA Deputy’s Fentanyl Overdose The case of a Sacramento County sheriff’s deputy, who survived an on-duty USA Deputy’s Fentanyl Overdose, has brought to light serious concerns over chronic drug misuse. Deputy Marvin Morales collapsed in a station bathroom in October 2023, where drug paraphernalia was found in his uniform. While Morales initially...
A raid on Paul Smith’s alleged illegal medicinal cannabis operation in rural Northland, New Zealand, has sparked widespread criticism. Police destroyed 40 cannabis plants and seized various products, charging the 66-year-old, widely known as “Gandalf,” with cultivation, possession for supply, and selling cannabis. Despite medicinal cannabis being legal in New Zealand since 2020, Smith is accused of...
Recent research reveals a troubling rise in underage tobacco purchases in New Jersey, identifying significant enforcement gaps despite the implementation of the Tobacco 21 (T21) law. Between 2019 and 2022, nearly half of all attempted underage purchases were successful, exposing young people to the grave dangers of tobacco use. This study highlights the urgent need...