After Inmate Dies, Pasco Sheriff Investigates Series Of Overdoses

LAND O' LAKES, FL -- Pasco County Sheriff's detectives are investigating a series of overdoses at the Land O' Lakes Detention Center after an inmate was found dead Friday morning.

The male inmate died of an apparent drug overdose. The actual cause of death will be determined by the Pasco-Pinellas Medical Examiner's Office through toxicology tests that can take up to six weeks.

Colton McKinley, 28, of Felsdale Avenue, Port Richey, was found unresponsive in his cell at about 7:15 a.m. Medical personnel in the jail used four Narcan doses on him in an attempt to save his life.He was pronounced dead at 7:45 a.m.

McKinley was arrested on Dec. 7 for scheme to defraud, possessing forged bills and uttering forged notes.

McKinley's death is among five overdose incidents that have occurred recently at the detention center. The suspected drug is methamphetamine, and the entire facility is being searched.

Detectives are investigating how the drug was smuggled into the center. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the drugs were brought into the facility by employees. A preliminary investigation indicates an inmate or inmates may have smuggled the substance into the facility by concealing it in a body cavity.

Image via Pasco Sheriff

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