An undercover Volusia Sheriff’s Office narcotics detective is recovering after being hospitalized in the ICU for several days following a fentanyl exposure last week.
The detective was exposed while handling evidence during an active narcotics investigation. Responding deputies and EMS units found him unconscious, immediately administered Narcan, and transported him to the hospital, where he received further treatment.
Officials say the quick actions of fellow deputies and first responders saved the detective’s life.
The narcotics investigation remains active and ongoing in coordination with the DEA and Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
“This incident underscores just how dangerous fentanyl is — not only to those who use it, but to anyone who comes into contact with it,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “Narcan truly saves lives.”
The department encourages anyone who may be at risk of exposure to carry Narcan and know how to use it in case of emergency.
The Sheriff’s Office thanked all law enforcement and EMS personnel who responded and continue to work on narcotics investigations that keep dangerous drugs and dealers off the streets.