Tavares police officer shares story of exposure to fentanyl during traffic stop

TAVARES, Fla. — On Thursday, we heard from the Tavares police officer who had to be given Narcan after she was exposed to fentanyl during a traffic stop.

The scary moments where she was in and out of consciousness were captured on body camera video.

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“I don’t think i would be here today if it wasn’t for the officers on the scene,” said Officer Courtney Bannick.

Bannick said the replay of the video is difficult to watch.

“It’s hard to see yourself like this, when you’re the one usually trying to help or assist these people,” she said.

Read: ‘I don’t think she’s breathing’: Video shows Tavares officer overdose after exposure to fentanyl

Tavares police said Bannick came into contact with fentanyl and other drugs on a routine traffic stop, though police haven’t said how much.

The suspect Bannick pulled over was arrested. She said she’s just thankful her fellow officers reacted quickly, administering three doses of Narcan after hearing what sounded like her choking over the radio during the call.

Read: Tavares police officer exposed to fentanyl shines light on opioid dangers

“I would really hope that officers never test narcotics roadside by yourself,” said Bannick. “This is what we’re dealing with and it’s just getting worse.”

Bannick is scheduled to return to work on Friday.

Video: Body camera footage captures moment Tavares officer overdosed after fentanyl exposure Police said the officer found several narcotics during a traffic stop and she was exposed to fentanyl.

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