Academy Probe Ongoing In Synthetic Marijuana Use
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The U.S. Naval Academy has expelled an eighth midshipman for using or possessing synthetic marijuana, and the superintendent says an investigation into its use at the school is ongoing.
The eighth midshipman was expelled last week, the academy said in a statement Monday.
"The Naval Academy continues to actively investigate suspected illicit drug use," Vice Adm. Michael Miller said in a statement.
The superintendent said the academy will continue to be transparent in disclosing the results of the ongoing investigation.
"If and when there is sufficient evidence and testimony of alleged drug use by additional midshipmen, they will be processed for separation," Miller said.
In January, the academy expelled seven midshipmen for violating the academy's illicit substance abuse policy. They were expelled as of Jan. 20 for using "Spice," a drug that is similar to marijuana. It is considered a banned substance by the Defense Department and the Navy.
"While the Navy is rapidly improving its detection methods, confirming spice use typically requires extensive investigation and corroborating evidence," Miller said.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
