Police have launched an investigation after a seven-year-old boy was allegedly given cannabis edibles whilst trick-or-treating on Halloween.
James Turnbull was reportedly handed a bag of “Cannaburst” sweets, which resemble Starburst packets but are believed to contain the Class B drug
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The incident in County Durham has sparked concern among parents and prompted a warning from Durham Police.
Officers are urging families to be vigilant and check their children’s sweets as a precaution.
The boy’s mother, Terri Turnbull, has expressed alarm over the situation, saying parents need to check their children’s sweets after Halloween activities.
The “Cannaburst” packet, which appears to be from the US, bears a warning label stating: “This package contains cannabis, a Schedule I controlled substance.
“Keep out of reach of children and animals.”
The incident occurred on Thursday evening around 7.30pm, after the Turnbull family had attended the Stanley Halloween Festival.
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James and his brother, along with three others, were trick-or-treating in the South Moor area when the edibles were allegedly given to the young boy.
Turnbull was alerted to the situation when her older son rang to inform her about the cannabis sweets.
Terri Turnbull expressed her concerns, saying: “Trying to explain to a seven-year-old that they can’t have the sweets isn’t easy.
“It’s really concerning. I don’t know what the world’s coming to.”
She added: “My little boy wanted them. I told them to keep the packet and we reported it to the police.”
Turnbull emphasised the need for parental vigilance, saying: “I want parents to be aware. Check your kids’ sweets.”
A Durham Police spokesperson said: “We are investigating after edible cannabis sweets were allegedly given to a child who was trick-or-treating in Stanley.
“Officers are urging parents to be vigilant and check their children’s sweets as a precaution.”
Cannabis is illegal to possess, grow, or deal with in the UK.
It is classified as a Class B drug, with possession carrying a maximum penalty of five years in prison or an unlimited fine.
Supply of cannabis can result in up to 14 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine.
