Cobourg Police Service (CPS) Chief Paul VandeGraaf is speaking up after an officer was allegedly exposed to fentanyl during a warrant arrest over the weekend.
In an update issued Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, the service said the officer – who was exposed to fentanyl during the arrest on the evening of Sunday, Sept. 21 – has been released from hospital and is expected to have a full recovery.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers our officers face daily,” said VandeGraaf, on Monday, in a public statement. “Thanks to the quick actions of our team, a potentially life-threatening situation was averted.
“We are grateful for (our) emergency service partners and … Northumberland Hills Hospital staff,” added VandeGraaf.
In the Sunday release, police stated the alleged incident resulted in a 33-year-old Cobourg woman facing charges.
According to the service, on Sunday, at about 7:45 p.m., police on patrol observed an individual wanted on a bench warrant.
“During the arrest, one officer began exhibiting symptoms consistent with opioid exposure. A second officer on scene immediately administered naloxone, and the officer was transported to the hospital for treatment,” reported police, on Sunday, at that time noting the officer was in “fair condition.”
The accused 33-year-old was arrested on the strength of the warrant for causing a disturbance, failing to comply with probation, failing to attend court, failing to attend prints, and further charged with possession of a schedule I substance – fentanyl.
None of these charges have been proven in court. The accused was held for bail, reported police, on Sunday.
In Monday’s release, VandeGraaf further stated: “This poison that is on our streets knows no bounds.”
“We will continue to ensure every person in possession of any amount of a controlled substance is charged and put before the courts when able,” he said, while also stressing that officers continue to work tirelessly to disrupt the flow of illicit substances and hold dealers accountable “for spreading this throughout our community.”
“I challenge the court system to hold offenders accountable at every stage of the process,” continued VandeGraaf. “Strict bail hearing processes, combined with community-centric and stringent conditions, demonstrate this commitment to keeping our community safe.
“The safety of our residents and front-line personnel continues to be our top priority,” he said.
No other details were released by police.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
