(PORTAGE) A Columbia County Jail deputy is expected to recover after being exposed to fentanyl and cocaine while processing an inmate.
According to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened March 31 after a 25-year-old Portage man, identified as Jose Fredy Rodriguez Acuna, was arrested during a traffic stop on drug charges.
Authorities say while booking the suspect into the jail, a deputy was inventorying his belongings when she opened a piece of U.S. currency that contained a powdery substance. The substance became airborne and struck the deputy in the face.
The deputy suffered a medical emergency and required immediate assistance. Other deputies administered Narcan before Portage EMS transported her to a hospital. She is expected to make a full recovery.
Officials later confirmed the substance tested positive for fentanyl and cocaine.
Rodriguez Acuna appeared in Columbia County Circuit Court on April 1 and faces charges of possession of narcotic drugs and possession of narcotic drugs and possession of cocaine. He was given a $1,000 cash bond.
Authorities say he was later released to federal immigration and Customs Enforcement after a detainer was placed.
The sheriff’s office says the incident highlights the ongoing dangers law enforcement and jail staff face when handling suspected drugs, even during routine procedures.
