An arrest of two men by New Boston Police has resulted in the confiscation of bath salts and hypodermic needles, and possibly the first arrests in Scioto County under the state’s new law banning bath salts. As of Oct. 17, 2011, under Ohio’s new law (House Bill 64) in banning bath salts, it is illegal to possess bath sales, a schedule one drug, a third-degree felony.

Stephen Osborne, 24, of New Boston and Shane Signs, 37 of Norwalk, Ohio, were taken into custody on a shoplifting complaint, which led to additional charges.

Monday night, NBPD responded to Kmart on a call from Kmart security of two possible shoplifters. On arrival, NBPD officer Kevin Lewis reported encountering Osborne and Signs and said they were exhibiting signs of being under the influence of an intoxicants. Osborne had something in his hand and upon questioning by Lewis, he said it was a plastic container containing bath salts. Signs also admitted to possessing bath salts.

Both were arrested, and upon further search, police say they also found two hypodermic needles on Osborne. Lewis said both admitted to abusing bath salts by crushing them and snorting and injecting them.

Osborne is facing charges of possession of drugs (bath salts) and possession of drug instruments, and Signs faces a charge of possession of drugs (bath salts). Capt. Steve Goins said both suspects have a criminal history and prior arrest for possession and trafficking in drugs.

FRANK LEWIS may be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 232, or flewis@heartlandpublications.com.