A frightening incident involving fentanyl was experienced in Cobourg Sunday night.
Around 7:45 p.m., a Cobourg Police officer was making an arrest on a person wanted on a bench warrant when they began exhibiting symptoms consistent with opioid exposure.
A second officer on scene immediately administered naloxone, and the officer was taken to hospital for treatment.
The officer was released from hospital early Monday morning and Cobourg Police say theyr’e expected to make a full recovery.
Cobourg Police Chief Paul Vandegraaf stated the incident is a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers police officers face daily.
“Thanks to the quick actions of our team, a potentially life-threatening situation was averted,” he stated, expressing gratitude for emergency service partners and the Northumberland Hills Hospital staff that helped nurse the officer to health.
“This poison that is on our streets knows no bounds. We will continue to ensure every person in possession of any amount of a controlled substance is charged and put before the courts when able.”
The Chief challenged the court system to hold offenders accountable.
33-year-old Desiree Irwin of Cobourg was arrested for causing a disturbance, failing to comply with probation, failing to attend court, failing to attend prints, and was further charged with possession of fentanyl.
The accused was held for bail.
(BROCK ORMOND)


