A coordinated law enforcement operation across eight counties in north Alabama led to the execution of 12 search warrants and the seizure of more than 1,500 products containing kratom as part of an ongoing investigation, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain compounds that can produce stimulant-like and opioid-like effects. Federal health officials have linked kratom use to risks including dependence, withdrawal, seizures, liver problems and other serious health effects.
Alabama added mitragynine and hydroxymitragynine, compounds associated with kratom, to the state’s Schedule I controlled substances list in 2016.
The investigation, coordinated by the 25th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, involved locations in Marion, Winston, Fayette, Walker, Jefferson, St. Clair, Etowah and Calhoun counties.
Investigators seized 1,528 bottles and containers of kratom products, along with additional suspected kratom-related products and evidence. According to the sheriff’s office, the items included commercially packaged liquid shots, capsules, powders and other kratom products.
The operation brought together multiple law enforcement agencies from across the region, including the Hamilton Police Department, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Winston County Sheriff’s Office, Double Springs Police Department, Lynn Police Department, Addison Police Department, Jasper Police Department, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Berry Police Department, Alabama Drug Task Force Region E, ALEA Narcotics and the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office said the multi-county operation “demonstrates the commitment of participating law enforcement agencies to working collaboratively across jurisdictional boundaries to investigate the distribution of substances that pose a risk to the health and safety of the communities they serve.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities said investigators continue to analyze evidence collected during the searches and that additional charges or enforcement actions may follow. The sheriff’s office said additional information and arrest details will be released as the investigation allows.
Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.
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