KENT COUNTY, Mich. — A Kent County deputy was exposed to cocaine while conducting a search Tuesday morning.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) says the deputy found a pouch containing an unknown substance while transporting a drunk driving suspect to the Kent County Jail.
We’re told he detected possible exposure to airborne particles and notified staff members at the jail. Staff administered four doses of Narcan as the deputy continued to display "effects of the exposure," the sheriff’s office says.
The deputy’s vitals were checked and he was taken to a nearby hospital where he is showing positive signs, according to KCSO.
The unknown substance was later determined to be cocaine, deputies say.
We sat down with Undersheriff Chuck DeWitt, who explained why staff resorted to Narcan during the incident.
"Your mind automatically thinks the worst," says DeWitt. "It's not going to the least that could happen. It goes to, 'Oh my gosh, I'm going to die.'"
DeWitt tells us everyone acted appropriately in accordance with their training. He says it was important that they provided immediate care.
"The fear of what may happen ... I'm sure the exposure from the drugs had an impact," adds DeWitt. "I'm sure the psychological factor had an impact. But, in the end, we all learn from situations such as this."
KCSO is using the incident as a reminder that help is available to those who are combating drug addiction. Seek help by calling 211 or 800-622-HELP.
