Marijuana

MARIJUANA

This slide presentation was built for the citizens of Osage County, in an attempt to help us better understand the effects and recognition of marijuana and it’s use/abuse.

PRESENTED BY: THE OSAGE COUNTY SHERIFF, TY KOCH

WRITTEN BY: CAPTAIN DAVE HINMAN

What is marijuana? Marijuana is a schedule I, controlled and

dangerous drug. It is the most often used illegal drug in

America. The active chemical in marijuana is (THC)

Tetrahydrocannabinol. Marijuana is classified as a depressant.

Marijuana slang terms Weed Smoke Bud Trees Gateway Indo Hydro Grass Blunt Mary Jane (the list goes on and on).

What are the effects of marijuana? Once ingested, the effects soon start. As the THC enters the brain, it causes the

user to feel euphoric (“high”), caused by the brain cells releasing the chemical, dopamine.

The heart rate increases and the bronchial passages relax.

Marijuana usually causes:-relaxation -disruption in attention

-reduced coordination -an altered sense of time

-reduced blood pressure

-sleepiness

In high doses, marijuana can cause:-hallucinations

-delusions

-impaired memory

-disorientation

Users often feel, dry mouth, hunger, or the feeling that time is passing by very slowly.

Once the euphoria passes, the user may feel sleepy or depressed.

WHERE DOES MARIJUANA COME FROM?

Marijuana is a natural drug that does grow wild in some areas of Oklahoma.

However, most wild marijuana is of a very low THC potency.

Imported marijuana In this area, most

imported marijuana comes from Mexico.

It is smuggled across the border and into the U.S.

Amounts can range to tons at a time.

Domestic marijuana

There are both indoor and outdoor grow operations that produce marijuana for Oklahoma.

Indoor grows or cultivation, using a hydroponic method, tend to increase the THC levels in marijuana drastically, which intensify the “high” using less marijuana.

As marijuana is purchased and sold, it eventually reaches the street level.

HOW IS MARIJUANA INGESTED INTO THE BODY?

The most common method of ingestion is by smoking it, but it can be eaten.

Marijuana cigarettes Often called “joints”,

marijuana is rolled into rolling papers and smoked.

“Blunts” are cigars in which the tobacco has been replaced by marijuana.

Pipes Pipes can range from

a wide variety of store bought designs, shapes, sizes, etc.

Pipes can be purchased at almost any “head shop”.

Pipes are rarely discarded by the user.

Bongs/ Water pipes Bongs are pipes that

work by allowing the smoke to cool (through the water) before entering the lungs.

This enables the user to get more smoke into the lungs.

Homemade pipes Pipes can be made

from almost any household item.

HOW CAN I RECOGNIZE A MARIJUANA USER IN MY HOME? Marijuana has a distinct aroma, much

different then that of tobacco. Like cigarette users, the odor usually lasts a while and stays on their person.

Masking the odor can sometimes be indicated by excessive use of: perfume/ cologne (on the body) Incense and air freshener (in the room) Air fresheners in the car/truck

Intoxication Similar to alcohol

intoxication. Slow or slurred speech Slow body movements Loss of balance Delayed reaction Forgetfulness

The eyes Glassy, red eyes Dilated pupils Use of or possession

of eye moisturizing products

Tired or low eye lids

Clothing

Marijuana users are often proud of their use and flaunt it on their clothing.

Room decor

Reading material

Concealment methods There are an increasing number of

items sold that are used to conceal marijuana.

The top picture is a marker or high lighter with built in pipe. (the marker works)

The bottom is a wood box, with 2 sections, commonly called a “dug out”.

It is used to hold marijuana and a small pipe (commonly called a “bat” or “1 hitter”).

Other things to look for: Sleeping in late Over-eating/ weight gain Lack of motivation Used sandwich baggies Seeds/ stems hand scales Roach clips

MORE TO THINK ABOUT Marijuana is considered to be a “gateway”

drug. This means that it is common for marijuana users to try other, more harmful, illegal drugs.

Marijuana is usually introduced during the early teen years by peer pressure from friends.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR MARIJAUANA? In Oklahoma, the penalties vary:

Possession of paraphernalia (pipes, roach clips, dug outs, etc.) is a Misdemeanor crime. Penalty- up to 1 year in the county jail and/or up to $1,000 fine.

Possession of Marijuana (1st offense) is a misdemeanor offense. This could be for any amount of marijuana recovered. Penalty- up to 1 year in the county jail and up to $1,000 fine.

Poss. Marijuana (2nd Offense) is a Felony charge. The punishment is a 2 to 10 years in prison with up to a $20,000.00 fine.

PENALTIES (cont) Possess Marijuana with intent to distribute is a

Felony charge. The punishment is a 2 years to life in prison with up to $20,000 fine.

Trafficking in Marijuana is a Felony charge. The punishment is a fine not less then $25,000 and up to $100,000. (aggravated: not less then $100,00 and up to $500,000) Up to life in prison.

Cultivation of Marijuana is a Felony charge. The punishment is up to life in prison with up to a $100,000 fine.

To report illegal drug activity Contact the Osage County Sheriff’s Office,

or your local law enforcement agency.

Osage Co. S.O. (918) 287-3131 Hominy P.D. (918) 885-4545 Pawhuska P.D. (918) 287-4545 Skiatook P.D. (918) 396-2424 Fairfax P.D. (918) 642-3612