Tag: DEA

Kratom, an herb Suffolk lawmakers proposed banning—sparking a local debate over whether it’s addictive or has medicinal value—will be illegal nationwide. The DEA is classifying mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, the active ingredients in Kratom, as Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substances Act, effectively making possession of the herb a crime, the agency said. Users that tout its effectiveness as an alternative painkiller, anti-depressant, anti-anxiety and addiction treatment were saddened by the news.

Authorities said the alleged heroin ring distributed from New York City to upstate and LI.

Michael Belfiore was charged with illegally distributing oxycodone.