CARROLLTON, Ga. — Carrollton’s police chief is warning residents that a substance often marketed as “natural” may still pose potential health and safety risks, urging the community to better understand the effects of kratom.
Speaking during a community meeting Friday, Carrollton Police Chief Joel Richards cautioned attendees that the plant-based product, commonly sold in smoke shops and convenience stores, can have mind-altering effects.
“The leaves contain compounds that have mind-altering effects,” Richards said. “It’s also sold in a variety of different ways. It does come in powder, pills, capsules, extract, resins, tea and beverages.”
Community discussion about kratom
The discussion took place during a public meeting in Carrollton, where law enforcement officials addressed growing concerns about kratom use and sales in the community.
Kratom is derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. The product is often marketed as a herbal supplement and is widely available in stores and online across the United States.
Because kratom products can be sold in various forms — including powders, capsules, drinks and concentrated extracts — Richards said many consumers may not fully understand what they are taking.
The chief emphasized that the label “natural” can sometimes lead people to assume the substance is safe.
Law enforcement concerns
Carrollton police have recently taken steps to monitor kratom sales, particularly those involving underage buyers.
The Carrollton Police Department’s Aggressive Criminal Enforcement (ACE) Unit has cited local businesses after investigations found some stores selling kratom products to individuals under the legal age.
Georgia law restricts the sale of kratom to individuals under the age of 21, and police say enforcement efforts are intended to ensure retailers comply with those regulations.
Officials say the substance’s accessibility — and the variety of products available — has raised concerns about misuse and potential health risks.
Impact on the community
Local officials say the issue is not only about legality but also about public awareness.
Police leaders worry that young people and first-time users may underestimate kratom’s effects because it is sold openly and often marketed as a natural wellness product.
Community meetings like the one held Friday are intended to educate residents about substances that may be legally sold but still carry risks.
Richards told residents that public education is key to preventing misuse and protecting young people in the community.
What comes next
Carrollton police say they will continue working with city officials and local businesses to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding kratom sales.
Law enforcement leaders also encourage residents and parents to learn more about the product and discuss its potential effects with young people.
For Richards, the message to the community was simple: just because something is natural does not necessarily mean it is harmless.
