A Florida fugitive blew fentanyl directly into a deputy’s face during an arrest, then insisted the deadly opioid was sugar for his low blood sugar, according to body camera footage released by Marion County authorities.

Suspect Claims Drug Was Sugar

The suspect told the gloved officer conducting the search that he carries sugar in baggies for medical purposes. When the deputy questioned why anyone would transport sugar that way, the man claimed he uses it when his blood sugar drops and needs to eat it immediately. The bizarre explanation came moments before officers discovered a black bottle cap mixed with crumpled napkins containing what authorities identified as melted fentanyl in his pockets.

The situation escalated when the suspect suddenly huffed the substance directly at the officer’s face. He then frantically claimed he was trying to blow it off the deputy’s hand to prevent accidental ingestion. The deputy immediately confronted him about the dangerous stunt as the powder spread through the air. The suspect warned the officer not to touch the substance, saying it could make him sick.

Evidence Found Throughout Vehicle

Marion County officials accused the suspect of attempting to destroy evidence during the search. Authorities later removed numerous pre-filled and used syringes from the man’s trash-filled vehicle. All items tested positive for fentanyl, according to police reports. One deputy made a sarcastic comment about the suspect having a lot of sugar while searching through the drug paraphernalia discovered in the car.

Officer Safety and Charges Filed

The exposed deputy is okay following the incident, Marion County officials confirmed in a Facebook post. Authorities issued a warning that even small amounts of fentanyl can be life-threatening to anyone who comes into contact with the drug. McAuliffe faces charges of possession of fentanyl, tampering with evidence, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He remains held without bond at the Marion County Jail awaiting trial. The bodycam footage serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face during routine traffic stops and arrests involving drug suspects.