The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about an incense type substance that is reported to have caused the hospitalization of a number of people in South Georgia.
“The substance is sold under the names Crazy Clown or Herbal Madness incense, among others,” Sheriff’s spokesman David Ehsanipoor said.
It is most commonly smoked or burned in a small bowl and inhaled.
“Please be aware that convenience stores and smoke shops in your jurisdiction could be endangering lives by selling this drug,” Ehsanipoor said.
Its active ingredient is unknown.
“Symptoms are nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, weakness, cardiac problems, but of note some subjects are experiencing paralysis,”
Ehsanipoor said. “Several people were admitted to intensive care and are on life support. The drug has been sent to the crime lab for testing.”
“The CDC is now investigating,” Ehsanipoor said. “Right now, all we can do is issue a warning until we obtain further results regarding the ingredients.”
Ehsanipoor said that anyone that sees this item in a local store should contact the Sheriff’s Office at 754-3449.