Teacher Arrested After Buying Drugs For Teenager Who Died The Next Day
Winder, GA – Emily Smith, a sixth-grade math teacher at the Winder Barrow Middle School, has been arrested. She is being accused of orchestrating a drug deal which led to the death of an 18-year-old girl.
Smith, 37, is facing criminal charges for distribution/solicitation with an electronic device (cellphone), reckless conduct, and criminal intent to distribute methadone.
Whether Smith will be charged in accessory to the girl’s death is still being determined.
Authorities say Smith made several phone calls and text messages on behalf of the victim to a third party in hopes of acquiring drugs. The victim had been known to babysit for Smith on occasion.
According to Sergeant Faye Spaulding of the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office, Smith willingly facilitated in acquiring methadone (a synthetic opiate) and Xanax (anti-anxiety medication), both controlled substances, for the 18-year-old.
The teen was discovered the following morning, Valentine’s Day, dead. The unidentified teenager passed away in her home sometime during the night, after ingesting the illicit drugs supplied by Smith.
Smith was arrested and released after posting an $8,000 bond.
The cause of death has not been officially declared, however toxicology reports do reflect high levels of controlled substances in the girl’s system, suggesting a possible overdose.
A statement provided by the school superintendent Wanda Creel, confirms Smith has been terminated after 14 years of educational service as a result of the allegations. An ethics complaint has also been filed with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Methadone is mainly used in the treatment of opioid dependence. It has a cross-tolerance with other opioids such as heroin and morphine, offering very similar effects and has a longer duration. Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression.
Independently, and while under prescribed care, the two drugs are effective at treating their respective disorders or addictions. Used recreationally, the combination of methadone and Xanax is lethal. Taking both substances together can multiply the effects of each substance, lessening consciousness and breathing.
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