Phoenix, Arizona, December 12, 2025
Arizona’s Attorney General has raised alarms about the rise of fruit-flavored cocaine in the state’s illegal drug scene. This trend, which seeks to attract young individuals and women, poses significant health risks, including potential fentanyl contamination. A recent case involved a dealer arrested for selling flavored cocaine, highlighting the urgency of law enforcement and educational campaigns to combat this concerning new marketing strategy.
Fruit-Flavored Cocaine Targeting Young People in Arizona, Attorney General Warns
PHOENIX, Arizona — Arizona’s Attorney General has issued a consumer alert regarding the emergence of fruit-flavored cocaine in the state’s illegal drug market. This new trend involves dealers marketing cocaine in flavors such as piña colada, strawberry, coconut, and banana, aiming to attract younger individuals and women.
Recent Case Highlights the Issue
In July 2025, Jaden Alfredo Covarrubias was arrested in Pima County for attempting to sell approximately 1.55 pounds of cocaine. He advertised the drug in flavors like coconut, strawberry, and banana, and used social media platforms, including WhatsApp, to offer the substances. Covarrubias was sentenced to 1.75 years in prison on November 24, 2025, and was ordered to pay fines totaling $4,800. This case underscores the growing concern over flavored cocaine targeting vulnerable demographics.
Health Risks Associated with Flavored Cocaine
Authorities warn that flavored cocaine poses significant health risks. Like other forms of cocaine, it can be laced with fentanyl, a potent opioid that increases the risk of overdose and death. The appeal of fruit flavors may entice individuals who might not otherwise consider using cocaine, leading to potential health crises among younger populations.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat the Trend
The Attorney General’s Office continues to monitor and address the distribution of flavored cocaine. Public education campaigns aim to raise awareness about the dangers of this drug and its marketing strategies. Law enforcement agencies are also intensifying efforts to identify and prosecute individuals involved in the production and distribution of flavored cocaine.
Background on Cocaine Use in Arizona
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can lead to serious health complications, including heart attacks, strokes, and seizures. In Arizona, the availability of cocaine has been moderate to high, with law enforcement agencies consistently working to reduce its presence in communities. The introduction of flavored cocaine represents a new challenge in these ongoing efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is flavored cocaine?
Flavored cocaine is a form of the drug that has been infused with fruit flavors such as piña colada, strawberry, coconut, and banana. This modification is intended to make the drug more appealing, particularly to younger individuals and women.
Why is flavored cocaine a concern?
Flavored cocaine is concerning because it may attract individuals who might not otherwise use cocaine, leading to increased health risks. Additionally, like other forms of cocaine, it can be adulterated with fentanyl, a potent opioid that significantly raises the risk of overdose and death.
What actions are being taken to address this issue?
The Attorney General’s Office is issuing consumer alerts and working with law enforcement agencies to monitor and combat the distribution of flavored cocaine. Public education campaigns are also underway to inform the public about the dangers associated with this drug.
How can I protect myself from flavored cocaine?
Avoid using illegal drugs, including cocaine, regardless of any flavoring. Be cautious of substances that are marketed in ways that appeal to younger individuals or women, as they may be part of targeted marketing strategies by drug dealers.
Key Features of Flavored Cocaine
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Flavors | Piña colada, strawberry, coconut, banana |
| Target Audience | Younger individuals and women |
| Health Risks | Potential fentanyl contamination, increased risk of overdose and death |
| Legal Status | Illegal in Arizona |
| Recent Enforcement | Individual sentenced to 1.75 years in prison and fined $4,800 |
Now Happening on X
- @FOX10Phoenix (December 12, 2025, 3:00 AM): Nightly roundup covering a man’s in-person court appearance for allegedly killing Charlie Kirk, Arizona AG warning about flavored drugs, and other top local stories. View on X
- @FOX10Phoenix (December 11, 2025, 3:00 AM): FBI searching for a murder suspect with ties to Arizona, federal decision on interest rates, and additional Valley news updates. View on X
- @FOX10Phoenix (December 10, 2025, 3:00 AM): Nightly roundup on deadly crashes on Valley freeways, Scottsdale district discussions on school closures, and more Phoenix-area developments. View on X
- @FOX10Phoenix (December 9, 2025, 3:00 AM): Police officer’s shooting of a dog under review, suspect indicted in deadly road rage shooting, and other key local stories. View on X
- @FOX10Phoenix (December 8, 2025, 3:00 AM): Hours-long barricade situation ends in arrest, wrong-way driver caught on dashcam before fleeing, highlighting recent public safety incidents. View on X
- @abc15 (December 8, 2025, 11:16 AM): Picture-perfect weather forecast for the week in Phoenix, encouraging residents to get out and enjoy the mild conditions. View on X
- @Oremus4Pacem (December 5, 2025, 3:14 PM): Bystander seriously injured in south Phoenix shooting after a fight escalated near Central Avenue and Roeser Road around 4 p.m. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
