The Tribune

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

A 14-year-old student from SC McPherson is in police custody after he allegedly brought marijuana laced snacks to the school and sold them to students.

Police said the incident took place on Wednesday.

The boy in question allegedly sold marijuana infused Rice Krispie treats to the students, four of whom fell ill at school and had to be taken to hospital by ambulance for medical attention. Later in the day, three more students complained to their parents about not feeling well.

Police said they also admitted to eating the marijuana infused cereal and were taken to hospital for treatment.

The student who was arrested is expected to face court charges today.

When contacted for comment, Bahamas Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson said the union did not have the full details about the incident. However she called the matter troubling and said she is praying for a speedy recovery of the affected students.

“The incident allegedly happened yesterday,” Mrs Wilson said. She spoke to this newspaper before police released a statement about the situation.

“I was informed by Vernon Rodgers, area vice president of the New Providence district, of the incident. I immediately requested that the permanent secretary advise me of the status of this matter. Thus far, I have not received any information from the Ministry of Education. At this time the details are sketchy. I will continue to investigate this matter.”

She added: “This is very troubling. I pray for the speedy recovery of the students who have been impacted and hope that once they have medically recovered that they will receive counseling. I want to remind teachers to remain vigilant and I thank the administration, teachers and staff of S C McPherson for their quick action.”

Mrs Wilson said teachers need additional training to detect new drug trends.

“The Ministry of Education must train the security officer and provide training opportunities for teachers in various safety techniques that will help to detect these new trends. If, it is true, as alleged, that these edibles were purchased in the community then I call upon the police to investigate this matter and bring the culprit to swift justice and punished by the full extent of the law.”

This incident comes a few weeks after Chief Superintendent Roberto Goodman of the Drug Enforcement Unit revealed police have been observing over the past three years the increase of marijuana infused in food items.

He said the edibles were being consumed by young people.