STUART, Fla. (CBS12) — A woman was arrested outside a Stuart Wawa after police say she was found passed out in her vehicle with multiple containers of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas” or “whippits.”
According to a probable cause affidavit from the Stuart Police Department, officers were dispatched March 5 to the Wawa at 983 SE Federal Highway after reports of a woman unconscious in a vehicle.
When officers arrived, they found 42-year-old Kaitlyn Jules Garofalo passed out in the driver’s seat of a black Kia Soul parked across two handicap spaces. Investigators say a 0.95-liter container of nitrous oxide was observed in her lap.
Police said Garofalo appeared disoriented. After being removed from the vehicle, she was evaluated by Stuart Fire Rescue. While her vital signs were reported as stable, EMS recommended transport due to her condition. Garofalo refused transport, according to the report.
Following an investigation, officers arrested Garofalo for knowingly possessing more than 16 grams of nitrous oxide with the intent to get high. During an inventory of her vehicle prior to towing, officers reported finding several additional nitrous oxide containers.
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She was transported to the Martin County Jail after being medically cleared.
Garofalo is charged under Florida Statute 877.111(4) with unlawful distribution or possession of nitrous oxide. Jail records show her bond was set at $2,500
New law targets retail sales
The arrest comes as Florida lawmakers crack down on the sale of nitrous oxide products in smoke shops, vape stores and gas stations.
As CBS12 previously reported, a bill sponsored by State Senator Clay Yarborough strengthens penalties tied to the sale and misuse of nitrous oxide. The measure targets retailers accused of selling the gas for recreational inhalation rather than legitimate culinary or medical purposes.
Under the updated law, selling nitrous oxide for the purpose of intoxication can carry felony penalties. The legislation also increases enforcement tools for law enforcement agencies investigating so-called “whippits” sales.
Nitrous oxide is legally used in medical settings and as a propellant in whipped cream dispensers. However, when inhaled recreationally, it can cause oxygen deprivation, loss of consciousness, nerve damage and, in severe cases, death.
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Law enforcement agencies across South Florida have reported an increase in cases involving nitrous oxide misuse, particularly involving large canisters sold in retail settings.
Authorities remind residents that while certain uses of nitrous oxide are legal, possession with intent to inhale for intoxication is a criminal offense under Florida law.