Designer drug called 'Smiles' in SWFL
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Since forms of the designer drugs Spice and K-2 were banned in Florida, dealers are peddling a new kind of drug in Southwest Florida called "Smiles." Video by fox4now.com
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NAPLES - Since forms of the designer drugs Spice and K-2 were banned in Florida, dealers are peddling a new kind of drug in Southwest Florida called "Smiles."
"(I'm) concern, concern and worried about my kids," said father of four Alex Bueno.
If the fact that a new synthetic drug is on the streets wasn't enough, experts say they are often marketed to kids using unsuspecting names.
"I think they're pathetic, you know. And they just are finding a way to make quick money."
In Grand Forks, North Dakota, two teenagers fatally overdosed on "Smiles."
The drug endues a psychedelic high and users report feeling wired up after consuming it in either pill or powder form.
"This is what we have to be careful of...they put it on candy bars or something sweet... Mix it with soda," said Chief Scott Salley with the Collier County Sheriff's Office.
The drug can also cause violent behavior in those who take it, which was the case with one of the teenagers who passed away in North Dakota.
Since dealers keep coming out with these drugs faster than law enforcement can keep up, Salley recommends that parents take a proactive approach.
"What we have to do is talk with our children... have an open discussion."
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