FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT

Major John Bean

Office: (870) 541-5351 / Cell (870) 329-5638

Email: john.bean@jefffcoso.org

DEPUTIES RUSHED TO HOSPITAL AFTER EXPOSURE TO UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE AT W.C. "DUB" BRASSELL ADULT DETENTION CENTER:  On December 20, 2023 at approximately 1200 hours, 5 deputies with the Jefferson County Sherriff's Office were taken to Jefferson Regional Medical Center (JRMC) after experiencing symptoms of exposure to an unknown substance while assisting a detainee and conducting a search of their cell at the W.C. "Dub" Brassell Adult Detention Center (DBDC).

Deputies Emanuel Hayes and Keaira Hawkins were transported to JRMC after becoming unconscious at the DBDC shortly after coming in contact with a detainee who was being uncooperative. The detainee stated people were smoking paper that had been soaked with drugs in the cell. Soon after a search of the detainee's cell was completed, Deputy Mauricia Bennett complained of chest pains and Zekeyia Jackson began experiencing a headache and noticed a rash on her face. Deputies Bennett and Jackson were transported to JRMC. Investigator Michael Musgrove, who was assisting in the search, was being seen at JRMC as a precaution. Investigator Musgrove was later released after showing no signs of exposure.  It is unknown at this time what the deputies were exposed to.

"We are relieved to report that all of our deputies are currently receiving medical attention, and we remain hopeful for their full recovery", said Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr.

"Today's incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers our deputies face while diligently carrying out their duties. These brave individuals put their safety on the line to uphold the law and ensure the well-being of our community as well as our detainees." Sheriff Woods said.

"Detainees are very ingenious, and they develop new ways of introducing the contraband into the detention center," explained JCSO Operations Commander, Major John Bean, adding that "We hear about these types of exposures across the country more often than we would like." This is a totally different ballgame. The wide variety designer drugs, and the numerous ways it can be taken into the body, makes it ever more challenging for it to be identified before it is introduced into our facility.  This incident again shows not only the dangerous affects of the drugs on the user but also anyone who may come in contact with them or the area it is used."  

"Our investigators are looking into the incident to determine the source of the exposure. We are committed to identifying those responsible, and we will pursue charges against them to the full extent of the law. The safety and well-being of our deputies are paramount, and any actions that jeopardize their health will be met with the appropriate legal consequences," said Major Bean.

We appreciate the outpouring of support from the community and ask for your thoughts and prayers for the swift recovery of our deputies.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.