Fentanyl Discovered During Cell Search at Oregon’s Largest Prison, Officer Sent to Hospital
A Snake River Correctional Institution officer was admitted to the hospital last Thursday after suspected exposure to fentanyl while conducting a cell search.
The white powdery substance later tested positive for fentanyl.
The incident occurred during an early morning cell search in the Ontario prison. The correctional officer experienced symptoms consistent with fentanyl exposure soon afterward.
*Fentanyl exposure occurs when this powerful synthetic opioid enters the body through inhalation, mucous membrane contact, ingestion, or needles. It can cause rapid and severe respiratory distress.
After the discovery of the substance, the prison collaborated with the Ontario Fire Department and its HAZMAT team to assess and investigate the incident, while Oregon State Police was also notified.
The officer was admitted to a local hospital for treatment and has since been discharged.
The Oregon Department of Corrections states that the incident highlighted the importance of preventive measures to stop dangerous substances from entering DOC facilities.
- Mar. 20, 7 a.m. : Officer finds white powder during cell search.
- Shortly after : Officer reports symptoms consistent with possible fentanyl exposure.
- Field test : Substance returns presumptive positive for fentanyl.
- Same morning : Staff call Ontario Fire HAZMAT and notify Oregon State Police.
- Later : Officer is evaluated at hospital and released.
The Snake River Correctional Institution is the largest in Oregon with beds for 3,000 prisoners.