Mumpower and Protester - Urban News PhotoAsheville, NC (March 9, 2013) – Former Asheville City Councilman Dr. Carl Mumpower, known to many as the self-professed “drug-czar of Asheville” headed up yet another protest to heighten the awareness of what he deems is another opportunity to ruin many innocent lives.

According to Mumpower,  “Bizarro” is the most recent form of synthetic “Fake Marijuana” being legally marketed as a incense, spice, or herb. In recent weeks Mumpower says he has made purchases of the Bizarro product at numerous location around Asheville.  “It is the latest in a ever growing list of products putting our children and community at risk,”says Mumpower.

Donna Ingle who son was seriously affected by the product states: “I was forced to make the hardest and most painful decision I have ever made in my life. I had my teenage son committed  due to the downward spiral in his life due to drugs. I was shocked to be told by his doctor that his drug test was negative for all drugs., however my son admitted that he was addicted to a drug that is ‘legal.’ This drug is called Bizarro, and he was buying it from our locally. I was shocked to be told by the hospital that Bizarro is not detected by a drug screen. This is a son who made the honor roll for six years straight, was never in trouble, and had many goals and dreams for his future. All of this changed due to his trying Bizarro, and finding himself needing more and more to get through the day. His days started having no purpose except smoking Bizarro. He started buying 3 bags a day, or his body would ache. He would vomit and have stomach cramps without it! I’m hopeful that my son can stay strong and fight this addiction. I’m begging for everyone to listen to me. This could happen to anyone’s child,” concluded Ingle .

“It is an evolution of a nineties  designed by chemist John Huffman called “K2” and also known on the street as “Spice.”  Bizarro follows in the footsteps of Salvia – another dangerous over-the-counter intoxicant marketed as innocent and natural.  These drugs are anything but innocent. We need your help to do something about it!” concluded Mumpower.

 

Many states have made synthetic cannabis illegal. In 2011, five versions were placed on Schedule I of the federal Controlled Substances Act.