Former Police Officer and Teacher Faces Drug Charges After Fentanyl Raid
In a shocking turn of events, a former police officer who transitioned to a teaching career has been arrested on serious drug charges. Amber Williamson, a 40-year-old educator, was taken into custody on Friday, 23 January 2026, following a targeted raid by the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.
Details of the Arrest and Raid
The arrest occurred at an apartment in Daytona Beach, Florida, where law enforcement officers executed a search warrant. During the operation, authorities discovered suspected narcotic contraband, which has been preliminarily identified as fentanyl. Williamson now faces six drug-related charges, highlighting the severity of the allegations against her.
Video footage released by the Sheriff’s Office captures the dramatic moments of the raid, showing officers uncovering the hidden contraband. This visual evidence underscores the meticulous nature of the investigation and the gravity of the findings.
Background and Reaction from Law Enforcement
Amber Williamson is not a newcomer to law enforcement; she served as a police officer for a decade before embarking on her teaching career. Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood, who personally hired Williamson back in 2009, expressed profound disappointment and described the situation as 'sickening'.
In a statement, Sheriff Chitwood emphasised the betrayal felt by the community, noting that a former officer and current educator would be implicated in such illicit activities. The irony of her old colleagues being the ones to arrest her adds a layer of personal and professional tragedy to the case.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
This incident raises significant concerns about trust and integrity within both the education and law enforcement sectors. As a teacher, Williamson held a position of influence over young minds, making her alleged involvement in drug dealing particularly alarming.
The case also highlights the ongoing challenges in combating the fentanyl crisis, a potent opioid that has been linked to numerous overdoses and deaths across the United States. Authorities are likely to use this arrest as a cautionary tale in their efforts to curb drug trafficking.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the community in Daytona Beach and beyond will be watching closely. The outcome could have lasting effects on public perceptions of safety and accountability in roles that are meant to protect and educate.
