A dangerous drug smuggling trend is spreading in U.S. prisons, with synthetic cannabinoids and opioids hidden in common paper items like letters and magazines.
According to the Center for Forensic Science Research & Education (CFSRE), these drug-soaked papers are causing severe health outcomes, including central nervous system depression and slowed heart rates.
Cook County Jail in Chicago, which holds nearly 5,000 detainees, has seen rising cases of smuggled paper laced with up to ten synthetic drugs - including protonitazene, a synthetic opioid stronger than fentanyl.
In 2023, 18 prisoner deaths were recorded, five due to overdose - three involving synthetic cannabinoids. The jail banned paper in April 2023 after repeated incidents.
The issue isn’t limited to jails - experts warn this method could spread to schools, mailrooms, shelters, and homes.
Dr. Adam Scioli of Caron Treatment Centers stressed that early detection and addiction treatment are key to stopping the crisis.