If you are a Colorado resident who seeks relief from chronic pain through the use of kratom, you could wind up confused as to its legal status in the state. Some people may never even have heard of this product, which is derived from the powdered leaves of a tree indigenous to Southeast Asia. There, it has been used medicinally for thousands of years to treat many different conditions.
Here in the United States, it is still a relatively new way to address chronic pain and other conditions for which users seek relief. The problem with kratom is its legal status differs from state to state and even from city to city in states like Colorado. Let’s examine further.
Is kratom legal here? Yes, no — and maybe
Basically, your ability to purchase, possess and use kratom depends on where you are within the state. While there are no federal or state laws against it, kratom is illegal to use or possess in either Monument or Parker. To further muddy the legal waters, Denver made it illegal when used for human consumption. However, one can legally possess or sell it in Denver if it does not contain labeling advising it for use by humans.
Confused yet? Keep reading. A few years ago, Castle Rock temporarily banned new kratom businesses from opening with its municipal limits. That ban was put in place to further study the substance. Ultimately, they ruled it was legal and lifted the ban.
What do the police do if they catch you with kratom?
Some law enforcement officers may not realize just what kratom is and could potentially arrest you for its possession. They may think it resembles heroin or another illegal substance. Few field test kits are equipped for testing kratom on-site.
If you get arrested for possession, use or sale of kratom, don’t try to handle the situation on your own. Contact an attorney immediately to defend you.