YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio-Ohio voters approved Issue 2 legalizing recreational marijuana, but locally, Youngstown police have noticed a concerning increase in children consuming marijuana-infused edibles, leading to severe illnesses. Calls to poison control centers regarding children ingesting cannabis-infused treats rose significantly, with most cases originating from home.
Captain Jason Simon emphasizes that marijuana is only legal for those 21 and older and advises strict storage of edibles to prevent access by children. The enticing appearance of these edibles poses a risk, as children mistake them for regular snacks. Legal consequences can ensue if a child consumes these edibles under parental supervision. Youngstown Police are actively investigating such incidents, and Simon stresses the importance of securely storing edibles to prevent accidental ingestion, which can result in serious health complications requiring emergency medical treatment, including intubation.
