The initiative to legalize psychedelics in Massachusetts is facing uncertainty and heightened drama in the lead-up to the upcoming November elections, which will feature not only the Presidential race, but also a ballot measure regarding the legalization of psychedelics. At the heart of the drama are allegations of fraud and identity theft involving James Davis, founder of Bay Staters for Natural Medicine (BSNM), and Mike Botelho, co-founder of New England Veterans for Plant Medicine (NEVPM).
According to an investigation by Talking Joints Memo, the two psychedelic advocacy groups joined forces last year to push for drug reform in Massachusetts and scored some high-profile media attention on their efforts to decriminalize magic mushrooms. When Botelho decided to relocate to another state last fall, he stepped down from his leadership position and gave Davis permission to write letters to politicians seeking support for psychedelic legislation, as long as Botelho was able to review and edit said letters before they were sent.
READ: The Western Medical Model for Psychedelics Is Built on Cultural Erasure
However, Botelho later discovered that Davis had impersonated him in communications with media, fellow activists, and legislators over a nine-month period, even creating an email address using Botelho’s name without his knowledge. Davis even declined speaking engagements in Botelho’s name, without his knowledge or approval. The leaked emails are available to view online. “To see this person impersonate me and answer emails that are from supporters, advocates, other grassroots organizations—and who knows what else—[in my name] … is stolen valor,” Botelho told TJM.
Davis’s alleged fraudulent actions followed other controversial decisions, including his alliance with anti-drug lobbying groups. The fallout led to Davis’ group, the Bay Staters for Natural Medicine, getting uninvited from Extravaganja Festival, due to concerns over misrepresentations and dishonesty. Voices from the psychedelic community expressed outrage at Davis’ conduct and emphasized the importance of ethical leadership and accountability in order for the movement to progress.
In the wake of the FDA advisory committee’s controversial no-vote on MDMA-assisted therapy, PTSD and rising veteran suicides remain central issues in the contentious landscape surrounding the legalization of psychedelics. Massachusetts lawmakers recently approved funding for research into psychedelic therapy for veterans, highlighting the pivotal role that service members could play in shaping the ballot measure’s outcome. These allegations of impersonation and fraud have emphasized the importance of truthful representation and ethical leadership within psychedelic advocacy movements.
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DoubleBlind Magazine does not encourage or condone any illegal activities, including but not limited to the use of illegal substances. We do not provide mental health, clinical, or medical services. We are not a substitute for medical, psychological, or psychiatric diagnosis, treatment, or advice. If you are in a crisis or if you or any other person may be in danger or experiencing a mental health emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency resources. If you are considering suicide, please call 988 to connect with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
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