A county in Florida is considered by police to be ground zero for the production and distribution of a dangerous new drug, which has allegedly been responsible for nearly 20 recent deaths. The drug is known as flakka, and its effects include hallucinations and exaggerated strength. Police reports indicate that the drug is responsible for many incidents of dangerous behavior, such as a recent case in which a man was killed by police as he held a woman hostage at knifepoint.
The drug originated in China, and in less than a year it has caused a significant hassle for Florida law enforcement, with one epidemiologist even claiming that the slew of drug cases rivals the peak of crack cocaine. What makes the substance so dangerous is its availability, with some prices being as low as $5 per dose for a high that can last three days. Law enforcement officials seem to be struggling with the outbreak particularly because the drug has become so widespread so quickly.
While it is important to contain drug outbreaks such as these, an unfortunate side effect could be that law enforcement officials will severely step up their efforts to crack down on drug crimes. Obviously such zeal is necessary to combat threats such as flakka, but too much gumption could lead to wrongful accusations as police try desperately to stop incidents before they occur.
If you are arrested for a drug crime in Florida, police may simply be trying to prevent flakka from causing any more damage. However, by arresting innocent people or illegally acquiring evidence for a conviction, police can end up threatening the lives and reputations of many Florida residents or even violating their rights. Do not hesitate to contact an attorney if you are suspected of drug crimes. You must take legal action in your defense.
Source: The New York Times, “Police in Florida Grapple With a Cheap and Dangerous New Drug,” Frances Robles, May 24, 2015
