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Police officer may have been exposed to fentanyl during vehicle search

The officer was transported to hospital Guelph Paramedic Services
20160202 Guelph Police Service Sign KA
File photo. Kenneth Armstrong/GuelphToday

NEWS RELEASE

GUELPH POLICE SERVICE

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On Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017, at approximately 4:30 p.m., while investigating a motor vehicle collision at Speedvale Avenue and Woolwich Street, Guelph, a Guelph Police officer located a quantity of white powder inside one of the involved vehicles.

Precautions were taken during the seizure of the substance; however, it is believed that the investigating Police officer became unintentionally exposed to the seized drugs while investigating the collision. The officer was transported to the GGH by Guelph Paramedic Services who were already on scene. The officer was treated and released that evening.

It is believed that the seized drugs may contain a synthetic opiate-like substance due to the reactions of both the driver of the vehicle and the investigating officer. The seized drugs were sent for analysis by Health Canada.

Terry Maloney, a 50-year-old Guelph male, has been charged with impaired operation of a motor vehicle by drugs, possession for the purpose of trafficking, and careless driving.

Guelph Police would like to again remind the public of the concerning trend of illegal substances being laced with synthetic opiates such as fentanyl and carfentanil. These substances can be dangerous and may be absorbed through the skin or inhaled if airborne in a confined space. 

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