On 11/21/21 Brattleboro police released a public safety message related to an potential overdose suffered by someone who had smoked marijuana. In that message BPD stated that some remaining marijuana had tested positively for fentanyl using a presumptive field test. BPD further warned that consumers of marijuana should know the source and history of any marijuana they consume.

On 11/30/21 BPD participated in a search warrant with the DEA where marijuana suspected of containing fentanyl was seized. A prior press release articulated that event.

The seized marijuana in both incidents was submitted to a forensic laboratory where testing was conducted. BPD was notified no fentanyl was found in the marijuana in either case.

​BPD stands by its previous public safety advisory that it is wise for consumers of marijuana to know the source and history of any marijuana they ingest.

Anyone arrested or cited by the Brattleboro police department is presumed innocent until convicted of a crime in court.

Captain Mark Carignan



Police organizations in New England have been cautioned about the presence of fentanyl-laced marijuana in some states.

On 11/20/21 Brattleboro police responded to a report of an overdose. CPR was used and several doses of Naloxone (Narcan) were required to revive the patient. The patient has survived, and no further information will be released regarding their medical status.

The patient asserted that they had not used any opiates, and had only smoked marijuana. Officers conducted a field test on the patient’s remaining marijuana and it tested positively for fentanyl.

The private smoking of marijuana is legal in Vermont for those aged 21 and older. Users are cautioned to ensure they know the source and history of any marijuana they may consume.

​The investigation into this matter is ongoing.

Anyone arrested or cited by the Brattleboro police department is presumed innocent until convicted of a crime in court.

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