Macomb County officials today signed an emergency order banning the sale of products containing synthetic marijuana and similar substances.

The order, announced today by Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and County Health Officer Steven Gold, allows for confiscation of such items, including K2. Business owners caught selling them could be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail, a $200 fine or both.

Gold said the state's Public Health Code allows an emergency order in the event of "imminent danger" to health or lives. The order will remain in effect until it is determined the threat is no longer present.

Officials announced the crackdown, dubbed K2 Kops, during a news conference this afternoon at a Mobil Pit Stop gas station at 21 Mile and North in Macomb Township.

Local businesses voluntarily removing the products from their shelves can obtain window signs indicating participation in the program by registering on Hackel's website, www.markhackel.com.