Flakka: Users gouge out eyes, chew faces and cut genitals under influence of this 'cannibal zombie' drug
A dirt-cheap drug, Flakka, that has led users to do some pretty horrific things, has claimed the life of its' first British victim. The woman, Andrea Horvathova was only 23 when she was found dead with flakka in her system post a house party.
The drug is extremely addictive and is a man-made substance that gets imported from China. Using flakka leads to zombie-like psychotic breaks and cannibalistic attacks.
In some parts of the US, the drug is known as 'gravel' due to its white crystal chunks that have been compared to aquarium gravel. The epicenter of the flakka craze was in Broward County in Florida.
Here is looking at what exactly flakka is and the worst psychotic episodes, so far:
How it all started
Flakka is a new generation version of a synthetic drug called bath salts (MDPV) which are made in massive quantities. Each time that one type of bath salt is made illegal, the drug labs alter the chemical structure slightly and a new drug that is technically not illegal gets created. This makes it very easy to keep the supply up and constant.
The drug is also much cheaper than drugs like cocaine or methamphetamines and can cost as little as $5 for a dose. This has resulted in the most vulnerable section of people, (homeless or the poor) getting hooked onto it.
Effects of flakka
It is a super dangerous drug that has multiple side effects, including significant changes in behavior or mood. Users experience a lot of paranoia and can feel as though they are being chased by a large group of people who are trying to kill them.
These users are not just a threat to themselves but are also a threat to those around them and first responders.
User stories
The drug has resulted in many absurd and disturbing cases that are very violent.
A man, Rudy Eugene, who was believed to be high on the drug, chewed the face and eyeball of a homeless man, Ronald Poppo.
Another 32-year-old woman, Camille Balla, who hails from Florida, cut out her mother's eyes during a drug-fueled murder. She was found covered in blood and was shouting "I killed my mother and I need help." She later shared with authorities that she had smoked a joint which she believes was laced with flakka.
In another sickening case, Derren Morrison was accused by the authorities of smoking flakka before attacking and killing Louise Clinton, 82. Morrison had reportedly told investigators that he believed that the victim was a blood-soaked demon who was trying to kill him.
Just last year, a student was rushed to hospital after trying to cut off his own genitals. Another man was arrested for running around naked and trying to have sex with a tree.
Experts in America have warned that flakka is overtaking crack cocaine as the new epidemic takes control of the country. A DEA special agent shared with The Sun, "Flakka is cheaper than a Big Mac."