A Central Florida man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he blew fentanyl into a deputy’s face during a drug-related arrest outside a Publix supermarket in Ocala, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say the incident occurred when officers attempted to arrest 36-year-old Jesse James McAuliffe on an active probation violation warrant. Law enforcement located McAuliffe’s vehicle in a Publix parking lot and blocked it in to prevent escape.
According to officials, McAuliffe exited the vehicle after repeated commands, and deputies immediately observed signs of drug use, including a tied-off strap on his arm and multiple syringes inside the car.
During the encounter, deputies discovered a small bag containing a white substance that McAuliffe allegedly claimed was “sugar,” though later testing confirmed it was fentanyl.
Authorities say the situation escalated when deputies located a melted substance in a bottle cap that also tested positive for fentanyl.
While officers were handling the evidence, McAuliffe allegedly blew the powdery substance directly into a deputy’s face in what investigators described as an attempt to destroy evidence.
Body camera footage released by the sheriff’s office reportedly shows the moment of exposure. Officials stressed that fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, and even minimal exposure can pose serious health risks.
Despite the exposure, the sheriff’s office confirmed the deputy was not seriously injured.
A further search of McAuliffe’s vehicle uncovered multiple used and pre-filled syringes, all of which tested positive for fentanyl, according to investigators.
McAuliffe was taken into custody and charged with possession of fentanyl, tampering with evidence, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
He is being held without bond at the Marion County Jail.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Video Credit: ClickOrlando l Orlando
Leave a Reply