14 Heroin Overdoses, 2 Deaths in 2 Weeks, Sarasota Sheriff Says

Sarasota, FL — After responding to 14 heroin-related overdose calls over the past two weeks, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about the dangers this drug poses.

“Investigators warn users that heroin seized locally has traces of fentanyl and carfentanil, a synthetic opioid drug with nearly 10,000 the potency of morphine,” the agency wrote in an email to media.

Since July 1, deputies have been called out on 14 overdose calls. Two of them have resulted in deaths, the agency said.

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"This warning is a reminder for the public that these deadly drugs have made their way into our community and can have deadly effects." said Sheriff Tom Knight. "This is a serious problem and one that we don't take lightly."

The sheriff's office urges people to call 911 if someone they are with overdoses. Those who have problems with heroin are also urged to seek help. The sheriff's office provides some advice for doing so in the following video:

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