There is a new drug that is creating a storm of controversy in Miami-Dade County. The chemical substance is called alpha-Pyrrolidinovalerophenone, also known as alpha-PVP. But the street name, “flakka,” is considerably more well-known.
In Broward County alone in 2015, there have been several flakka-related deaths and newsworthy incidents. The Broward Sheriff's Office estimates that nearly 275 flakka cases have been filed since January 2015.
Flakka is a synthetic drug but the effects can cause a person to become violent. Too much of the drug can cause hallucinations and paranoia, even death.
PVP is a Schedule I narcotic in the State of Florida. It is a cheap drug, similar to bath salts, and can be purchased for as little as $5.
The drug can be smoked, snorted, ingested, or injected.
Possession of PVP is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
Eric Matheny is a Miami criminal lawyer and Broward criminal lawyer.