Petaluma police officer carrying Narcan saves man from overdose

In April, as part of a field program, Petaluma police officers began carrying Narcan, the fast-acting drug that has saved thousands from overdosing on opioids. For the second time in 10 days, that program likely prevented a death.

On Friday night, police officers were called to the Starbucks at the Plaza North Shopping Center on McDowell Boulevard. A man had locked himself in the bathroom and would not respond to knocks at the door. Police pried open the door and found a 33-year-old unidentified man lying unconscious on the floor, surrounded by hypodermic needles, which are commonly used for heroin.

It was clear the man was overdosing on opioids, so the officer injected him with a dose of Narcan while they waited for Petaluma medics to respond. The Petaluma Fire Department transported the man to Petaluma Valley Hospital, where he was treated and released.

The man will not face any charges due to a California law that prohibits the prosecution of those on drugs who are seeking immediate medical attention. The same is true of those reporting overdoses to authorities. The law was written to ensure those addicted to drugs do not fear retribution when seeking necessary medical care for themselves or others.