Student faces charges after fentanyl found in Groton high school bathroom

GROTON, Conn. (WTNH) — A staff member at Ella T. Grasso Technical High School discovered a small plastic baggie containing white powder in a boys’ bathroom.

Principal Patricia Feeney quickly confirmed that the substance was fentanyl, a potent opioid known for its lethal effects even in small doses.

The school’s first priority was ensuring the safety of its students and staff.

“They came in in hazmat suits and actually removed it properly,” said Feeney.

Feeney and her team used the incident as an opportunity to educate students and families about the dangers of drug use, especially when it comes to potent substances like fentanyl.

“We educated them if they do touch it and touch their mouth or their nose. They could ingest it and that could be fatal,” said Feeney.

The discovery hit close to home for many, reminding them of a tragic incident two years prior when a 13-year-old boy from Hartford died after coming into contact with fentanyl at his middle school.

Joshua Herzer of Groton expressed concern about the presence of such dangerous drugs in schools.

“With it going everywhere I guess it’s not surprising that it would make its way to schools,” said Herzer. “But it does make me nervous about sending my own children into schools.”

Using surveillance footage, school authorities were able to identify the individual responsible for bringing the fentanyl into the bathroom. The student, who remains unidentified due to their age, now faces charges of illegal possession of narcotics and breach of peace.

While the school has taken necessary steps in response to the incident, they cannot say what those steps are due to confidentiality.

In the meantime, they are making sure people know Narcan is kept at the school.

“We are doing a refresher for our staff and offering staff members that haven’t been trained or want to be trained,” said Feeney.

Despite the shock and concern caused by the fentanyl discovery, the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks associated with substance abuse, especially within school environments.