A Wisconsin sheriff’s deputy found herself in a precarious situation while handling evidence from a suspect involved in drug-related activities. During the booking process of Jose Fredy Rodriguez Acuna, a 25-year-old from Portage, the deputy encountered an unexpected hazard when a powdered combination of fentanyl and cocaine became airborne, hitting her face, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred on March 31 after Acuna’s arrest following a traffic stop. As part of the standard procedure, deputies were cataloging his possessions. Columbia County Sheriff Roger Brandner explained, “While handling U.S. currency seized from the suspect, a bill was unfolded, releasing a powdery substance into the air directly in the deputy’s face, resulting in exposure.”
As a result of the exposure, the deputy experienced a significant health scare, described as a “medical event” by the authorities. Quick-thinking colleagues administered Narcan, a life-saving treatment known for reversing opioid overdoses, providing the necessary immediate care.
Jose Fredy Rodriguez Acuna’s arrest has shone a light on the inherent risks law enforcement officers face when dealing with drug-related incidents, highlighting the potential dangers of even seemingly mundane tasks such as handling money.
Jose Fredy Rodriguez Acuna, 25, was arrested in Wisconsin on drug charges. A deputy became sick when she was hit in the face with airborne powdered cocaine and fentanyl from money belonging to Acuna, authorities said. (Getty Images; Columbia County Sheriff’s Office)
The deputy suffered a “medical event” and needed immediate care, authorities said. Other deputies administered Narcan, an over-the-counter nasal spray or injection that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses, on the sick deputy.
A deputy suffered a “medical event” after being exposed to alleged powdered cocaine and fentanyl. (iStock)
The deputy was taken to a hospital and was expected to make a full recovery.
The powdered substance tested positive for cocaine and fentanyl, the sheriff’s office said. Last week, Acuna was charged with possession of cocaine and possession of narcotic drugs.
He was ordered held on a $1,000 cash bond. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged a detainer request with the sheriff’s office and he was taken into federal custody.
A close-up image of a pill press machine in New York on June 24, 2024. (Andrew Kelly/Reuters)
Brandner noted that people arrested for drug offenses often conceal drugs and paraphernalia in their belongings during the intake process.
“The danger doesn’t stop on the street, and our jail staff must be prepared for his danger,” he said. “?Our staff did a fantastic job identifying and responding to this life-threatening emergency. We are thankful that the deputy will be able to recover.”
Fox News Digital has reached out to ICE.
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