An Oregon man, Michael Meyden, 57, from Lake Oswego, has been charged with multiple felonies after allegedly spiking smoothies with sedatives and giving them to his daughter’s 12-year-old friends. The incident occurred on the night of August 25, 2023, during a sleepover, as stated in court documents and a probable cause affidavit filed in Clackamas County.
According to the affidavit, the girls were hospitalized after consuming the spiked smoothies and subsequently tested positive for benzodiazepine, a drug commonly prescribed for anxiety. Benzodiazepines, such as Valium, Xanax, and Klonopin, are depressants that induce sedation, sleepiness, and a relaxed mood.
The court documents did not provide a specific motive for Meyden’s actions in allegedly serving the spiked smoothies to the children. Meyden is facing three felony counts of causing another person to ingest a controlled substance, three felony counts of applying a Schedule IV controlled substance to the body of a minor, and three misdemeanor counts of delivering a Schedule IV controlled substance to a minor, according to court records.
Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs that are commonly prescribed to treat various conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps to calm the central nervous system.
Benzodiazepines have sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. They are typically prescribed for short-term use due to their potential for dependence and tolerance if taken for an extended period. Some commonly known benzodiazepines include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), and temazepam (Restoril).
Mark Cogan, Meyden’s attorney, confirmed that his client turned himself in to the Clackamas County Jail following a grand jury indictment. Meyden pleaded not guilty during his arraignment, which took place on Wednesday. He has posted bail of $50,000. The charges against Meyden highlight the seriousness of the alleged actions and the potential harm caused to the young girls involved. The legal process will now proceed, allowing for a thorough examination of the evidence and a fair determination of Meyden’s guilt or innocence.
