UPDATE: An 18-year-old from Mastic Beach, identified as Jahsheem Jones, has been charged after a shocking incident at William Paca Middle School in May 2023. Jones is accused of selling cannabis gummies to a student, leading to a medical emergency that sent at least three students to the hospital.
Authorities confirm that several students fell ill on school grounds, triggering a rapid response from Suffolk County Police and emergency medical teams. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene with multiple police vehicles and ambulances arriving swiftly to aid those affected. Reports indicate that around a dozen students, aged 13 to 14, were involved in the incident.
Jones was taken into custody after a thorough police investigation traced the incident back to his home on Robinwood Drive. He has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child and issued a desk appearance ticket, with his court date yet to be scheduled.
The alarming situation has raised significant concerns within the local community, prompting parents to voice their worries about student safety in schools. In light of these events, educational initiatives are being reinforced. A spokesperson for the William Floyd School District emphasized their ongoing commitment to student safety, stating, “We continue to educate our students throughout the school year about the dangers of all drug use, including cannabis and edible cannabis.”
Parents are also taking action. Katherine Hernandez, a concerned parent, shared her approach to discussing substance misuse with her son, Lucas, following the incident. “He talked a lot about his health class here actually not to take any alcohol or drugs, all the bad effects of that,” she told ABC7NY.
As authorities continue to address the aftermath of this troubling event, the community remains on high alert. Parents and educators are urged to stay vigilant and maintain open dialogues with students about the risks associated with drug use. The situation is developing, and further updates are anticipated as investigations proceed.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of cannabis products, especially in school environments, making it crucial for ongoing education and awareness efforts. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
