Inmate, prison staff sickened by unknown substance
ANAMOSA, Iowa — An inmate at the Anamosa State Penitentiary is recovering after authorities say they were exposed to some kind of substance.
It happened around 11:30 p.m. Saturday when security and medical staff were called to one of the living units. When they arrived, an inmate was unconscious and appeared to be under the influence of something. Narcan was administered before the inmate was taken to the hospital for additional care. The inmate was treated and returned to the prison.
Three staff members who responded to the medical emergency were also exposed to the unknown substance. As the inmate was being prepared for transfer to the hospital, these staff members became ill and were seen by the on-site medical team. Out of an abundance of caution, Narcan was administered to two of the three staff members, and all three were transported via ambulance to the local hospital for observation. The three staff members have since been released from the local hospital after their condition stabilized.
Investigators with the Department of Public Safety Narcotics Enforcement Division have arrived at the Anamosa State Penitentiary and assessed the quarantined area and determined it is safe for reentry. The DOC will continue to work in conjunction with DPS to conduct a full investigation.
