Pubdate: Mon, 30 May 2005 Source: Daily Herald-Tribune, The (CN AB) Copyright: 2005 The Daily Herald-Tribune Contact: http://www.dailyheraldtribune.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/804 Author: Kevin Crush POLICE CONCERNED AFTER GHB DRUG SURFACES IN THE CITY Police are worried after a drug bust alerted them to the emergence of a new drug in the city. During a May 25 bust at a north-side home, RCMP seized around four litres of GHB, a drug that has been associated with date rapes. Commonly referred to as "G" or "Liquid Ecstasy," its normally considered a "club drug" as it is similar to drugs, like ecstasy, that are often found in the rave scene. But GHB can cause even more concern than many of the other "club drugs," said Grande Prairie RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Brent Mundle. "It also, because of the effects, acts as a sedative and then has the potential to be used in date rape situations." While the drug is normally taken by the user, it has been known to be used as a date rape drug. An addictive, clear liquid sold by capfuls and often mixed with alcohol, GHB is a central nervous system depressant that has similar effects to alcohol. It is, however, far more dangerous than alcohol as the drug not only can cause severe intoxication and irrational behaviour, but also slow the heart rate to dangerously low levels with the possibility of the user becoming comatose. There is no chemical antidote to deal with overdose situations. Police discovered the drugs while executing a drug search warrant on a north-side home May 25 at 4:30 p.m. The female occupant of the residence and a male friend were found inside and taken into custody. The search found approximately four litres of GHB with an estimated street value of $4,000, 64 ecstasy pills with a value of $1,200, three grams of crystal meth worth $200, and 1.5 ounces of powder cocaine worth $4,000. The 21-year-old woman has been charged with possession of cocaine, methamphetamine and GHB for the purpose of trafficking. The male was charged with possession of cocaine. Both have been released on their own recognisance. Both are to appear in Grande Prairie provincial court on June 20. Police have not released the name of either suspect. - --- MAP posted-by: Josh