The Los Angeles Police Department just briefed its officers on the purple drank. And officials are insisting it has nothing to do with this weekend’s BET Awards. Riiiiiight…
According to TMZ, law enforcement sources say there were given the 411 on codeine-containing cough syrup, the drug of choice for many of today’s rappers. They were reportedly taught about how it’s mixed, what it smells like, and how to recognize it—just in time for one of the biggest awards shows of the year. But before you accuse the LAPD of profiling, officials want you to know that it’s all a coincidence. Again: Riiiiiight…
TMZ points out that one of the divisions where a “lean” meeting was held is fairly close to the Microsoft Theater, where the BET Awards show is going down on Sunday. It’s also worth noting that officers within the Hollywood Division were not given this briefing, as the LAPD insists those officers are already well-versed in sizzurp.
The drug is widely believed to have originated in the Houston hip hop scene, where rappers would mix prescription-strength cough syrup with soft drinks—traditionally Sprite. The codeine and promethazine in the drink is said to produce lethargic and europhoric sensations; however, the drug has been linked to several hip-hop deaths, including DJ Screw and UGK's Pimp C. Another rapper who is often associated with the substance is Lil Wayne, who was recently hospitalized for seizures reportedly brought on by promethazine-codeine syrup.
