ExplainersSouth Carolina Deputy Collapses from Fentanyl Exposure During Car Search

South Carolina Deputy Collapses from Fentanyl Exposure During Car Search

A shocking video released by the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office shows a South Carolina deputy collapsing during a traffic stop after being exposed to fentanyl. The deputy, identified as Lt. Kristin Riddle, was revived with two doses of Narcan and is now recovering at home.

Incident Unfolds on Bethera Road in Bonneau

According to an incident report, the exposure happened last week near Bethera Road and Mitchum Town Road in Bonneau, after deputies responded to a call about a woman reportedly passed out in a black SUV.

“The woman claimed she had pulled over after nearly hitting a deer,” said Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis, per WYFF 4. “However, when deputies asked why she had fallen asleep, she had no clear answer.”

What Deputies Found Inside the Vehicle

Once the woman was safely removed from the locked SUV, deputies began a search. Lt. Riddle located two suspicious substances:

  • A clear plastic bag containing an unknown powder was tucked on one side of the woman’s bra
  • A folded dollar bill containing more powder on the other side

While handling the items, Lt. Riddle was not wearing gloves, which Sheriff Lewis later acknowledged may have contributed to the exposure.

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Deputy Riddle Collapses and Is Saved by Narcan

In the bodycam footage, Lt. Riddle can be heard urgently requesting Narcan before collapsing to the ground. A fellow deputy quickly administered two doses, which successfully revived her.

“I think it was because of the excessive heat of the day, but normally she would have had gloves on… and should have had gloves on,” Sheriff Lewis said.

Lt. Riddle was transported to a local hospital and later released. She is now recovering at home.

Fentanyl Found in Dollar Bill and Bag

According to Live 5 News, testing revealed the presence of fentanyl:

  • The folded dollar bill contained about 0.01 grams of a brown powder, which field-tested positive for fentanyl
  • The plastic bag held approximately 2 grams of a similar substance

Suspect Known to Authorities, New Charges Pending

Sheriff Lewis confirmed the woman involved is known to law enforcement and has a prior record of drug-related offenses. She has been taken into custody, and additional charges are pending in connection with the deputy’s fentanyl exposure.

Sheriff’s Office Responds with Renewed Safety Focus

“This was the most serious fentanyl-related exposure involving a Berkeley County deputy during my time in office,” said Sheriff Lewis.

The department reaffirmed its commitment to training and safety protocols, especially for deputies dealing with narcotics investigations in the field.

Summary:

  • 📍 Location: Bethera Rd. & Mitchum Town Rd., Bonneau, SC
  • 📅 Date: Week of July 29, 2025
  • 👮 Victim: Lt. Kristin Riddle, Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office
  • 💉 Substance: Fentanyl (confirmed via field test)
  • 🚑 Response: Two Narcan doses administered
  • ⚖️ Suspect: In custody, charges pending

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