Fairfax County Police Seize Nearly 17 Pounds of Ecstasy Since January 2012

By Greg Hambrick and Jason Spencer

Fairfax County police narcotics officers has seized nearly 17 pounds and over 3,000 pills of the drug MDMA — also known as ecstasy or "Molly" — since January 2012.

Police have investigated 168 cases involving the drug in that timeframe, or an average of eight per month.

This particular drug has become increasingly popular with high school and college-aged students, according to police.

Molly is a semi-synthetic compound that can be a mixture of caffeine and speed and other stimulants. It is used as a recreational psychoactive drug.

"Police remind residents that parents are still the strongest influencers in their children’s lives," police said in a news release. "Help make your children, of all ages, safer by having a discussion about illegal drugs." 

• More from Patch — Experts: Five Signs Your Teen Could Be Using Club Drug 'Molly'

Molly might have been a factor in the August death of University of Virginia sophomore Mary “Shelley” Goldsmith, 19, according to the Washington Post. Police are awaiting a toxicology report for a final determination. 

Molly was also linked to two deaths at a New York music festival. 

Most recently, pop singer Miley Cyrus caused a controversy by putting a line in her hit song "We Can't Stop" about "dancing with Molly."

Tips for parents from the Unified Prevention Coalition and the Partnership for a Drug-Free America include:

• Make time to talk with children; explain the risks of these drugs.
• Learn the signs of recognizing drug use and how to intervene.
• Educate your family on harmful effects of drugs.
• Make it clear you do not approve of drug use.
• Be vigilant. Don’t panic; help is available.
• Secure prescription drugs in your home.
• Get involved; learn more.

Parents: Are you concerned about the drug Molly when it comes to your children? Tell us in the comments below.