A suburban New Jersey middle school art teacher was arrested after overdosing in front of students.
Frank Thompson, 57, a teacher at Roosevelt Intermediate School in Westfield, was found unresponsive and unconscious in a classroom just after 9 a.m. on November 29.
When police arrived, Thompson was being treated by a school nurse after being observed in distress by students.
Upon responding to the call, a police officer immediately recognized signs that the teacher was overdosing and administered naloxone hydrochloride, or Narcan, that he carried with him.
According to police, Thompson showed signs of improvement quickly.
A subsequent investigation found fentanyl and paraphernalia in a classroom closet.
In a letter to parents, the school district said the classroom had been sealed off and sanitized.
Despite the fact that the incident occurred in November, Thompson was charged on Thursday with possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, endangering the welfare of children, and disorderly conduct.
His court appearance is scheduled for February 1.
“While the Westfield Public School District cannot comment on personnel matters which are confidential, we will maintain a continued focus on student and staff safety and on preserving the integrity of the classroom learning environment,” explained District Superintendent Dr. Raymond González. “We are grateful for our strong partnership with the Westfield Police Department.”