Chelsea Shover : “LA Fentanyl Sales Surge on Craigslist”

When browsing through Craigslist, it may seem like you’re just looking at listings for ordinary items like blue socks, china sets, and action figures. However, a closer look reveals that these seemingly innocent posts contain coded language that advertises illicit fentanyl. Drug market experts have identified suspicious posts on the platform that use phrases like “pressed socks,” “try a plate to guarantee quality,” and “pure action figure” to sell dangerous drugs.

Despite Craigslist’s terms of use prohibiting the sale of prescription pills and illegal drugs, ads for fentanyl have been prevalent on the platform, especially in Southern California. While some drug dealers have moved to other sites and apps, Craigslist remains a popular choice due to its free, easy-to-use, and anonymous nature.

Frosting and Fetty Wap

The convenience of Craigslist has made it easier for people to buy drugs without the need for a physical connection to a dealer. Users can simply search for coded terms on the platform and arrange a purchase within minutes. Law enforcement officials have noted the removal of barriers that once deterred people from buying drugs, leading to an increase in online drug sales.

Dealers on Craigslist use a variety of code words to evade detection, such as referring to heroin as “fine china” or oxycodone pills as “blue tool sets.” Fentanyl, also known as fetty or fet, is disguised as “confetti-flavored frosting” or “fettuccine” in listings. These coded language tactics allow dealers to operate openly on the platform without arousing suspicion.

‘Roxy Board Shorts’

The consequences of buying drugs on Craigslist can be deadly. Henry Zurkow, a promising student at the University of Colorado, tragically died of a fentanyl overdose after purchasing pills through the platform. His parents believe that Craigslist should take more responsibility in preventing drug sales on its site to avoid similar tragedies.

Despite some high-profile cases of drug-related deaths linked to Craigslist sales, the platform continues to be used by dealers to sell counterfeit pills and illicit substances. Law enforcement agencies are working to educate social media platforms and e-commerce companies about the dangers of facilitating drug sales.

‘There’s a lot of Drug Sales’

Craigslist has a long history of facilitating illicit activity, with drug dealers using coded language to sell drugs on the platform. While efforts have been made to crack down on drug sales, dealers continue to find ways to operate on Craigslist. Other platforms like OfferUp have implemented measures to reduce drug listings, showing that it is possible for sites to take action against illegal activity.

Despite the challenges of monitoring online drug sales, it is essential for platforms like Craigslist to be proactive in preventing the sale of dangerous substances. By implementing stricter measures and cooperating with law enforcement, online platforms can help protect users from the risks associated with buying drugs online.