WHEELING, Ill. [WLS] -- A disturbing incident in a suburban park has prompted a police investigation and renewed concerns about public safety and cannabis-related products. On Sunday afternoon, a woman is suspected of handing out THC-infused candy to children at Pleasant Run/Four Acres Park in Wheeling, leading to four children falling ill.
According to the Wheeling Police Department, the incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. Officers were called to the park after reports that several children had become sick after consuming candy given to them by an unknown woman. All four children were taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Medical staff confirmed that at least one of the children tested positive for THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis.
While cannabis products such as edibles are legal for adult use in Illinois, they remain tightly regulated and are strictly prohibited for minors. Accidental or deliberate exposure to THC in children can result in a range of harmful effects, including nausea, dizziness, altered mental state, and in more severe cases, unconsciousness.
Police conducted a search of the park and located a milk chocolate product containing THC, further supporting suspicions that the candy consumed by the children may have been cannabis-infused. The exact nature of the substance and how it was distributed is still under investigation.
The suspect is described as a heavyset woman between 50 and 60 years old. She was last seen wearing a blue and white leather jacket and has a blue cross tattoo on her shoulder. Authorities have not yet identified the woman and are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that could assist in the investigation.
This incident raises serious concerns about cannabis safety, particularly regarding accidental exposure to children. While THC products are clearly labeled and intended for adult consumption, their resemblance to regular candies and chocolates makes them especially dangerous if not properly stored or distributed with care.
Local authorities and health officials are urging parents to remain vigilant in public spaces and to educate children about the dangers of accepting food from strangers. They are also calling on community members to report any suspicious behavior in parks or other public areas.
As the investigation continues, the Wheeling Police Department is working to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible cannabis use and the need for community-wide efforts to protect children from harm.
