Editor's Note 8/19/2021: The video that is referenced below has been removed from Vimeo after more than 400 health professionals, first responders, public health researchers, drug journalists, and people with lived experience signed a petition that cited multiple studies showing mere contact with fentanyl can not cause an overdose. Forensic has removed the video from this article as well, and will cover the spread of this myth in an upcoming article that will be linked here once published.
On July 3, 2021, Deputy David Faiivae from the San Marcos Sheriff's Station put on his uniform and badge for his patrol shift.
He had no idea he was about to go through one of the worst days of his life after being exposed to fentanyl. If it wasn't for the quick-thinking of his field training officer, Corporal Scott Crane, in administering Naloxone, Faiivae would not be alive today.
The San Diego County Sheriff's Department has used body camera footage of this traumatic incident, along with interviews from Faiivae and Crane, to create a public safety video spotlighting the dangerous and often deadly effects of fentanyl.
Fentanyl continues to be one of the greatest threats facing San Diego County and the nation. This synthetic opiod is 50 times more potent than heroin. Just a few grains of fentanyl can be absorbed through the body and lead to respiratory failure and even death.
"Fentanyl overdoses are on the rise throughout our county," said Sheriff Bill Gore in the public safety video. "Everyday, deputies recover fentanyl in our communities and the county jails are not immune to the dangers of this drug."
In 2014, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department became the first law enforcement agency in California and the Western United States to allow all deputies to carry Naloxone. Also known as Narcan, Naloxone is a nasal spray commonly used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Patrol deputies regularly use Naloxone on individuals they encounter who may be suffering from an overdose.
Every deputy working in San Diego County jails carries Naloxone in the event someone in custody is experiencing an overdose. The Sheriff's Department has a comprehensive approach to keep illegal drugs from entering county jails. Our innovative strategy combines investments in equipment and technology, utilizing specialized resources and integrating investigative methods to provide a safe environment for those in our custody, as well as our staff.
The men and women who patrol your communities and work in county jails work diligently and take every precaution when they encounter fentanyl and other dangerous substances.
"Please take the time to share this video," said Sheriff Gore. "It might save the life of your son, daughter, friend or loved one."
The Dangers of Fentanyl - San Diego County Sheriff's Department from San Diego County Sheriff.