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Broadcast time: 2:00 pm |
Date: September 27, 2017 |
Between September 25 and September 26, 2017, the Sarnia Police Service has responded to three calls to assist the ambulance regarding possible heroin overdoses. On September 25, two females (a 27 year old and a 48 year old) were taken to hospital by EMS for what is believed to be heroin overdoses. Both were separate incidents and at different residents.
On September 26, 2017, officers from the Sarnia Police Service responded to a residence to assist ambulance regarding another possible overdose. Upon arriving officers observed a 27 year old male who had collapsed on the ground and turned blue. An occupant in the residence had begun CPR.
The individual appeared lifeless and barely breathing. The on duty Sergeant was able to attend and had Narcan (Naloxone) that was administered to the individual. Shortly thereafter Sarnia Fire and Lambton Paramedics attended and continued the male’s care. A short time later the 27 year old began to come around and was transported to hospital.
Fortunately no one died but the likelihood was there. Also, due to the quick thinking of bystanders medical attention was sought immediately.
Even though the suspected drugs were located in two of these circumstances, no charges were laid as part of the Good Samaritan Act to avoid people not calling in out of fear of charges. As long as small quantities are located the police are there only to ensure the safety of the individual in such situations.
Also, in all three circumstances, it was believed that the substance taken was only heroin. At this time it has not been determined if the heroin had been laced with fentanyl powder which is significantly more potent and thus life threatening.
The Sarnia Police Service does not endorse the use of illegal drugs but wishes to remind people that if they do live or associate with someone that does have a heroin addiction that they can attend the Lambton Health Unit or most local pharmacies and ask for Naloxone which is dispensed for free for situations just like these.
Constable Giovanni Sottosanti
Media Officer
Tel: 519-344-8861 Ext 6168
Email: 168@police.sarnia.on.ca