Heroic Deputy Saves Baby from Drug-Endangered Parents in Volusia!

2095 E. New York Ave, Deland, FL, USA - In the early hours of October 24, 2024, a heroic act unfolded in Volusia County that has garnered significant attention, not just locally, but across the nation. At around 3:15 AM, Deputy Blaine Lewis responded to a harrowing scene in the parking lot of a Circle K convenience store, located at 2095 E. New York Ave. An 8-month-old baby was found crying and alone, stuck in a car while the child’s caregivers were unresponsive in the front seat. Deputy Lewis took immediate action, rapping on the car window with her baton to rouse the baby.

The chilling details revealed that the baby was sweating and hungry, with an empty bottle and a dirty diaper. The mother, semi-conscious and struggling to communicate, had a concerning background—upon searching her, officers found a plastic baggie containing white residue that tested positive for opiates. Meanwhile, the male driver exhibited signs of drug use, with visible track marks and a spent syringe also testing positive for opiates. Both were charged and taken to Volusia County Branch Jail, while the innocent baby was placed into the care of the Department of Children and Families.

Crisis Highlighted Through Heroism

This incident is a stark reminder of the opioid crisis that has gripped the United States. Recent reports suggest that approximately nine million children across the country live in households impacted by substance use disorders. These children face heightened risks of neglect, abuse, and exposure to the justice system, painting a dire picture of the challenges many families face today. The role of law enforcement is crucial in these situations, providing not just immediate assistance but also guiding families to recovery pathways through deflection strategies that direct individuals toward community services instead of punitive measures. The National Drug Endangered Children (DEC) program is at the forefront of these efforts, offering comprehensive resources to support both children and caregivers affected by substance abuse.

The need for an effective national response to the epidemic grows ever more urgent. The last decade saw a staggering 200% increase in opioid-related deaths, surpassing fatalities from car accidents and violence. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated this crisis, leading to over 100,000 overdose deaths between 2020 and 2021. This grim reality underscores the importance of early identification and intervention to mitigate the fallout from substance use within families, particularly to shield vulnerable children from its detrimental effects.

Recognition for Lifesaving Actions

In recognition of their life-saving efforts, Deputy Blaine Lewis, alongside New Smyrna Beach Police Detective Nikki Diffin, was honored with the Headline Surfer award for Newsmaker of the Year. Fellow officer Fred Hilaire also received honorable mention for his commendable work in rescuing two opioid-dependent women from overdoses. Their actions highlight the critical intersection of law enforcement, healthcare, and community services in battling the opioid crisis.

As we look toward the future, it’s clear that a multi-faceted strategy is necessary to address this challenge effectively. Evidence-based programs aimed at improving family dynamics and community stability have demonstrated promise in curbing substance misuse. With an emphasis on collaboration among various sectors, including health and education, a comprehensive approach to prevention can help tackle the root causes of drug use, including economic instability and family dysfunction.

Continuous efforts to enhance awareness around social determinants of health can aid in reducing the impact of these issues. The spotlight on stories like that of Deputy Lewis serves not only to honor individual heroism but also to amplify the urgent call for collective action against the opioid epidemic, particularly in protecting the children caught in the crossfire.

For more on this inspiring story and further developments, you can read the details at Headline Surfer, delve into the role of law enforcement in combating substance abuse at the U.S. Department of Justice, or explore the broader implications of the opioid crisis through research published in PMC.