Jarrell D. Williams : SPD Charges Suspect in Drug Exposure Case

In a shocking turn of events, the Spokane Police Department has taken legal action against a suspect who intentionally exposed two corrections officers to a hazardous substance at the Spokane County Jail.

On the evening of May 13th, 2024, at approximately 9:27 PM, Spokane Police officers conducted a routine traffic stop in the vicinity of Maple and Sharp streets. During the stop, they encountered Jarrell D. Williams, a 44-year-old male with an active felony warrant for Department Of Corrections (DOC) violations. Williams was promptly arrested on the warrant and transported to the Spokane County Jail for processing.

Upon arrival at the jail, as Williams was being processed for his warrant, he surreptitiously retrieved a concealed object from his possession, later identified as a white powdered substance. In a deliberate act, Williams flung the powder towards the toilet in the processing area, causing it to scatter throughout the holding cell and exposing two corrections officers to its harmful effects. The substance could be visibly seen on the uniforms of the affected staff, both of whom displayed symptoms consistent with potential fentanyl exposure.

Quick to respond, the jail staff administered Narcan, a medication used to counter the effects of opioid overdose, to both officers. One of the officers required a second dose of the life-saving drug. Subsequently, both officers were swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for further medical evaluation and care.

Given the gravity of the situation and the blatant disregard for the safety of the corrections officers, Williams now faces charges of two counts of 3rd Degree Assault and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute. This is not Williams’ first brush with the law, as he has a history of drug-related offences, including prior felony convictions for Delivery of a Controlled Substance- Methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Distribute.