KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. — Authorities have arrested an Ohio man in connection to a wave of drug overdoses that swept through Charleston earlier this week.
The Charleston Police Department and Mayor Amy Goodwin confirmed on Friday that between Wednesday night and Thursday night, 35 non-fatal overdoses were reported across the city. The incident prompted a major response from law enforcement and emergency medical services.
“Wednesday night into Thursday night was an extremely challenging time here in the City of Charleston, to say the least,” said Mayor Goodwin.
According to CPD Deputy Chief Scott D. Webb, emergency responders noticed that the naloxone being administered was not immediately reversing the effects, indicating an unusually potent drug. This triggered a joint investigation with the Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).
That investigation led to the arrest of Anton Jeffries, 31, of Ohio, who was taken into custody on charges of possession with intent to deliver fentanyl. He is currently being held at the South Central Regional Jail.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, with efforts focused on removing the dangerous drugs from the streets and identifying others involved in distribution.
Fortunately, no deaths have been reported in connection to the overdoses. Mayor Goodwin commended first responders for their swift and coordinated response.
“If you need help, we’ll help you. I promise you, we will help you. But if you are here to peddle your poison in the City of Charleston and to commit crimes, you will be held accountable. We won’t take this anymore,” said Goodwin.
