KPD arrests two for meth possession

LIHU‘E — The Kaua‘i Police Department arrested Staci Matsusaka of Kalaheo, 42, and Curtis Kapahu of Hanapepe, 47, last week after locating illegal drugs in their possession at a residence in Kalaheo.

KPD’s Vice Section executed several search warrants that resulted in the recovery of 915 grams (about 2 pounds) of methamphetamine, three firearms, various ammunition, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Matsusaka and Kapahu were arrested on Friday, Oct. 15, and are charged with promoting a dangerous drug in the first degree. They were both released pending investigation, according to KPD.

KPD is aware of the continued distribution and use of hardcore, illicit drugs around the island. These substances have been leading to premature deaths, as toxicology findings have found mixtures of meth, heroin, cocaine and fentanyl in deceased individuals.

So far this year, there have been two confirmed and two suspected deaths (pending toxicology results) due to overdoses of synthetic opioids, which includes fentanyl.

KPD personnel are trained on the proper use of Narcan, a nasal spray that is used in emergencies to treat suspected opioid overdoses. Police officers carry it with them while on patrol.

Since a September incident when two women’s lives were saved due to the use of Narcan at the Mayor Bryan J. Baptiste Sports Complex in Kapa‘a, officers have used this lifesaving spray on at least three other occasions.

Kaua‘i police have also made more than six arrests related to the illegal distribution of fentanyl over the past 60 days.

During the same period of time, police recovered approximately 250 grams of methamphetamine, 10 grams of heroin (equal to 100 dosage units), 200 suspected counterfeit tablets labeled oxycontin but presumptively tested as fentanyl, and 1.5 grams of fentanyl.

“To put it into perspective, it only takes two milligrams of fentanyl to cause a lethal dose, which means that 1.5 grams equates to about 750 lethal doses of fentanyl,” said KPD Chief Todd Raybuck in a press release.

“We can’t reiterate enough just how dangerous this drug is. We really want to encourage everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an overdose so that you can take action if needed,” he said.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that, according to the federal Drug Enforcement Agency, is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin as an analgesic (pain reliever). The pharmaceutical drug was originally developed for use as an analgesic and anesthetic for cancer patients.

Illegal fentanyl is either intentionally ingested or is laced in batches of other drugs, such as cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine. It’s most commonly found in its powder form and is inhaled, ingested or injected.

Some of the results of an overdose include the recipient acting as if in a stupor with a reduced level or loss of consciousness, pupillary size changes, nausea, vomiting, limp body, cold and clammy skin, coma and/or respiratory failure.

The DEA notes that the presence of a triad of symptoms such as a coma, pinpoint pupils and respiratory depression are strongly suggestive of opioid poisoning.

“If you or someone you know should experience any of these symptoms and need help, please do not be afraid to call 911,” Raybuck said. “We are focused on saving lives and not pursuing criminal charges for people in a medical crisis.”

For more information online and for resources to help with substance abuse, visit the state Department of Health Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division at health.hawaii.gov/substance-abuse/ or health.hawaii.gov/substance-abuse/prevention-treatment/, or visit McKenna Recovery Center at mckennarecoverycenter.com/lihue-kauai.

Anyone who would like to report any suspected illegal use and/or distribution of fentanyl may call KPD dispatch at 808-241-1711. Those wishing to remain anonymous may submit tips to Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i at cskauai.org.