New Jersey teacher faces criminal charges after overdosing in front of students

Westfield, New Jersey - Local police announced that an art teacher, who was found unconscious by his students at school due to an overdose, will face criminal charges.

Students at Roosevelt Intermediate School found their art teacher Frank Thompson in distress. He was allegedly suffering an opioid overdose (stock image).
Students at Roosevelt Intermediate School found their art teacher Frank Thompson in distress. He was allegedly suffering an opioid overdose (stock image).  © 123rf/stockbroker

Per the Westfield Police Department's press release, the shocking incident occurred at Roosevelt Intermediate School in suburban New Jersey around 9 AM on November 29.

Art teacher Frank Thompson was found unconscious and unresponsive on the floor of his second-floor classroom.

The 57-year-old was discovered by his students and was reportedly in "distress." The School Resource Officer Fortunato Riga arrived at the scene, as the school nurse also responded and administered emergency care.

Luckily, Riga figured out that Thompson had suffered a drug overdose and jumped into action. He administered the Naloxone Hydrochloride (or "Narcan") he had on his person, a medicine that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose.

After the injection, Thompson showed "marked signs of improvement."

In Friday's statement, Police Chief Christopher Battiloro praised Officer Riga's quick thinking.

"In this case, the swift actions of Officer Riga, who is on-site at Roosevelt Intermediate each school day, proved instrumental in maintaining the safety of the students and administering potentially life-saving measures to Mr. Thompson."

Art teacher in New Jersey faces multiple criminal charges for opioid overdose at school

Frank Thomspon is now facing criminal charges and will have to appear in court.
Frank Thomspon is now facing criminal charges and will have to appear in court.  © 123RF/freedomtumz

In the investigations that followed, law enforcement officers found a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia in the classroom closet.

The Westfield Police Department announced criminal charges against Thompson on Friday, including possession of a controlled dangerous substance, citing fentanyl.

He has also been charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and endangering the welfare of children.

Thompson is scheduled to appear in court on February 1.

Cover photo: New Jersey art teacher faces criminal charges after overdosing in front of students

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