A Douglas County Sheriff's Patrol car is parked at Douglas High School.
Three vape pens confiscated at Douglas High School tested positive for THC, Ecstasy, fentanyl and other opioids, according to information released by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Douglas County School District on Wednesday.
“The presence of fentanyl in these vape pens is particularly concerning,” Douglas County Sheriff Dan Coverley said. “Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that can be fatal in even small amounts. We are committed to working with the school district to investigate the source of these substances and to hold those responsible accountable.”
Coverley said the students in possession of the pens are facing the juvenile equivalent of possession with a controlled substance charges.
“The safety of our students is our top priority,” said School Superintendent Frankie Alvarado. “We are working closely with the sheriff’s office to address this situation and to provide our students with the necessary resources and support to make healthy choices. We urge all parents to have open and honest conversations with their children about the dangers of vaping and substance use.”
After being confiscated, laboratory testing confirmed the presence of the substances.
“We don’t believe the pens were ordered online like you would traditionally order something from Amazon,” he said. “We believe they were ordered over a social media app and supplied by a local individual. We are continuing to work that part of the case.”
Both the schools and sheriff’s office are urging parents to be aware of the danger of substance use through the DCSD, DCSO, and national organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Fentanyl is blamed in the deaths of four people at a 2024 Lake Tahoe Superbowl party and prompted an emergency declaration in Alpine County related to several deaths in Woodfords.
“The scariest portion of this is the fentanyl,” Coverley said. “It’s just so dangerous and the risk of overdosing is huge. Hopefully, this information will help parents and give them some resources to know what to look for.”
Officials asked parents to talk to their children about substance abuse.
“Have open and honest conversations with your children about the risks of vaping and substance use,” the organizations advised parents. “Create a safe space for them to ask questions and express concerns.”
They also asked parents to be aware of their children’s behavior such as mood swings, decreased academic performance, or changes in social habits and to check children’s belongings for the devices.
Other tips include:
Supervise Internet Use: Monitor your child’s online activity and social media accounts, as these can be sources of information about and access to drugs.
Know Their Friends: Be aware of your child’s friends and their activities.
Secure Medications: Keep prescription medications in a secure location and out of reach of children.
Seek Help: If you suspect your child is using drugs or alcohol, seek professional help immediately. Contact your child’s school counselor, a trusted healthcare provider, or the Sheriff’s Office.