Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Store Fined $1M for Selling 'Mr. Happi'

Leon County Judge John Cooper on June 30, 2022, in a screen grab from The Florida Channel.
Tampa Tribune
/
The Florida Channel
Leon County Judge John Cooper on June 30, 2022, in a screen grab from The Florida Channel.

Law enforcement agencies have been less than successful in trying to stop the sale of synthetic drugs, also called "bath salts," which are pitched to kids under names such as "Scooby Snax" despite their danger. The dealers simply change the chemistry faster than the Legislature can pass laws against it. 

So as the Tampa Tribune reports, Hillsborough County Commission is trying a different approach:  an ordinance that bars the sale of any synthetic drugs and takes store owners to court if they violate it. A  convenience-store owner drew a $1.25 million fine last month, which he's expected to fight in court.

Originally founded in December 2006 as an independent grassroots publication dedicated to coverage of health issues in Florida, Health News Florida was acquired by WUSF Public Media in September 2012.