Five Air Force Academy cadets have been kicked out of the school and another 25 are under investigation for allegedly using a prohibited “intoxicating substance” known as “spice.”
“Consistent with Air Force policy and instructions, the U.S. Air Force Academy has a zero tolerance policy regarding the use of these intoxicating substances, and certainly illegal drug use or possession,” said Lt. Gen. Mike Gould, the school’s superintendent, in a media release.
Air Force personnel who violate banned-substance policies face disciplinary actions that could include court-martial, non-judicial punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, reprimands and involuntary separation from the service.
Five cadets have been “separated” from the academy since April, the Air Force said.
“The investigation remains ongoing and any additional allegations will be fully investigated as well,” the release said.
“The abuse of these products by military members, cadets and cadet candidates contradicts the nature of the profession of arms, threatens our military readiness and impairs our responsibilities to the Air Force and our Nation,” Lt. Gen. Gould said.
Academy command describes “spice” as a “mixture of herbs and synthetic cannabinoid compounds” sold by “commercial sources.”
The release said commanders are also investigating, and concerned about, the use of a “psychoactive hallucinogenic plant” known as “salvia.”
Cadets were also warned about the dangers, and repercussions of, inhaling household chemicals and abusing over-the-counter medications for the “purpose of becoming intoxicated” or “high.”
Kieran Nicholson: 303-954-1822 or knicholson@denverpost.com.
