Winnipeg police say they received at least half a dozen confirmed reports of cannabis edibles that were found in children’s Halloween candy.
The candy in question is an illicit cannabis edible, Medicated Nerds Rope Bites, with 600mg THC. The Winnipeg police Twitter account says officers were “dispatched to reports and have seen the product firsthand.” The reports were connected to the Tuxedo neighbourhood of Winnipeg.
Police are still waiting on testing results of the products.
These kinds of illicit edible products have become increasingly common in Canada in the past few years, mimicking legal non-infused candy products that consumers, especially children, are used to.
While many online expressed skepticism at the police’s claim, police emphasize they have confirmed the reports. Any parents who discovered the products are encouraged to contact law enforcement. The products in question can be found for around $25-$35 each, online.
Police have not received any reports of children consuming the products. Police also say it’s too early to say what kinds of charges could be laid.
So far, all reports have involved treat bags that include multiple candies in one baggie. Police are encouraging parents to check all their children’s candy.
While such reports are often met with skepticism, there have been confirmed reports of cannabis-infused edibles making their way into Halloween candy on occasion.
British Columbia
Police in Richmond, BC, are also reporting that a child there was taken to hospital after becoming ill from eating Halloween candy laced with THC that they received while trick or treating last night. An image shared with media by police shows a similar “medicated Nerds ropes” product.
Prior to Halloween, the BC government issued a warning about the possibility of such issues arising.
“We count on parents and all those who choose to consume cannabis to help keep kids safe. Illegal cannabis often comes in bright and colourful packaging designed to look like popular candy that kids love to get this time of year,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“It is also important to remember that legal cannabis products can still be attractive to children, and it’s critical for people to put away, lock up, and safely store any cannabis products they may have been using – especially edible varieties that could look enticing to young children.”
