Dear :

I am writing to inform you about a new law in New Jersey that all students should be aware of. 

On Wednesday, February 29, 2012, New Jersey Attorney General Chiesa announced an Order of the Division of Consumer Affairs, banning the manufacture, distribution, sale, and possession of any of the hundreds of variants of dangerous, man-made chemicals designed to mimic the effects of marijuana, commonly known as "synthetic marijuana," "K2," or "Spice."  This ban includes all possible variants of the drug.

Effective immediately the Order adds these chemicals to the list of Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substances in New Jersey. This means that the manufacture, distribution, sale, or possession of these chemicals is now a third-degree crime. Violators may be subject to a fine of up to $25,000 and imprisonment for a three-to five-year term.

Individuals who voluntarily surrender these designer drugs to law enforcement by 11:59 p.m. Friday, March 9, 2012 will not face criminal charges. The announcement is intended to encourage individuals to immediately hand over the drugs to their nearest State, county, or municipal law enforcement agency.  On the William Paterson University campus, this may be done anonymously by bringing these drugs to Campus Police Headquarters and turning them in at the front desk.  Students will not be asked to identify themselves, and no questions will be asked.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Glen L. Sherman, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President and Dean of Student Development