Submitted by Police Chief David Meeker
(Oneida, NY – June 20, 2015) Oneida City Police have seen an increase in the number of people that are getting sick, disorientated or passing out after using synthetic drugs such as legal phunk (synthetic marijuana). Those affected are displaying bizarre behavior, vomiting, passing out and are requiring emergency medical treatment and hospital treatment.
Several arrests have resulted in the possession of synthetic drugs and a local law is in the process of being passed to address all synthetic drugs and provide stronger penalties to those that possess or sale synthetic drugs.
With the various chemicals being used to make up the synthetic drugs the unknown affects to those that use the product make it dangerous and a health risk and the increase in those requiring treatment ties up medical and hospital personnel. Those making the product often change the chemical make up to try and stay ahead of laws.
With a blanket law covering all synthetic drugs it will prohibit any synthetic drug, regardless of the chemical makeup. Those using synthetic drugs should stop and anyone offered synthetic drugs should refuse to prevent from becoming sick and described by those affected as a horrible experience with vomiting, confusion and other adverse health effects.
Blotter for June 19
Shawn M. Desormeau, 35, of Park Avenue, Utica was arrested June 16 on a Bench Warrant for allegedly failing to appear in court on a Petit Larceny charge.
April Van Patten, 28, of N. Main Street, Oneida was charged June 18 with fourth-degree Criminal Mischief. She is alleged to have intentionally damaged the property of another.
Larry A. Bavo, 53, of E. Elm Street, Oneida was charged June 18 with Obstructing Emergency Medical Services. On Williams Street at about 8:30 p.m. Bavo is alleged to have intentionally obstructed emergency medical services of Oneida City Rescue Squad and Vineall Ambulance personnel while they were attempting to attend to an unresponsive male on the sidewalk. He is alleged to have interfered with the treatment and refuse to remove himself from the area after being warned several times obstructing the stretcher being brought to the patient.