Utica (WSYR-TV) -- Utica Police have made their first arrest under the newly passed city ordinance for possession of synthetic drugs.
Police arrested 30-year-old Benjamin Silva on Wednesday. The arrest stemmed from a domestic incident in which police say Silva violated a protection order and pushed his wife during an argument.
During the arrest, Silva was found to be in the possession of marijuana and a small glass jar labeled “Cleaner," which contained what police say was bath salts.
Silva has been charged with criminal contempt and harassment, as well as unlawful possession of marijuana and possession of synthetic drugs.
Earlier this month, the city of Utica passed an ordinance giving officers the right to arrest users and sellers of synthetic drugs. Those caught selling or using now face 15 days in jail and up to a $250 fine.
This is the first arrest of its kind in New York State.
