Sailors caught illegally using, distributing drug spice, Navy says

Sixty-four U.S. sailors have been caught illegally using or distributing the designer drug spice, the Navy announced Thursday in San Diego .

Of the 64 sailors, 49 were assigned to the aircraft carrier Carl Vinson, the Navy said.

All of the sailors are being either discharged or given non-judicial punishment, officials said.

Of the Vinson sailors, eight have already been discharged for drug use and three were discharged for other issues, according to the Navy.

Spice -- the so-called fake marijuana -- is made with synthetic cannabinoid compounds, some of which are so potent that they have been declared illegal by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Navy’s policy on drug use is simple and clear –- zero tolerance,” said Vice Adm. Gerald Beaman, commander of the U.S. 3rd Fleet.

Along with the Vinson, other sailors found to be using, distributing or possessing the drug were from the nuclear submarine San Francisco and the floating dry dock Arco.

“Our sailors must understand the dangers and consequences of using drugs -– substance abuse risks the lives of shipmates and erodes readiness," said Rear Adm. Frank Caldwell, commander of the submarine force of the Pacific Fleet.

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