Amherst, Virginia, witnessed a disturbing incident at Central Elementary School where a group of Amherst fourth-grade students fell ill after consuming gummy bears from a bag found to contain fentanyl residue.
Amherst Fourth-Grade Students Exposed to Fentanyl-Laced Gummy Bears; 2 arrested (Photo: People Magazine)
The Incident and Investigation Revealed
In a recent report published by Fox News, in December 14, 2023, Clifford Dugan and Nicole Sanders, residents of Amherst, now face multiple charges in connection to this alarming episode involving Amherst fourth-grade students. While initial gummy bear tests were negative, a field test on the residue in the bag revealed a positive response for fentanyl, prompting concerns about the safety of school snacks. Authorities believe the contamination occurred either at home or en route to school, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance in ensuring the well-being of students more specifically the Amherst fourth-grade students.
The incident occured on Tuesday at Central Elementary School when a student shared gummy bears during lunch, leading to Amherst fourth-grade students approximately five students exhibiting symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and muscle spasms. Though the gummies initially tested negative, the residue in the bag tested positive for fentanyl.
Clifford Dugan and Nicole Sanders, now facing charges, are under investigation, with the authorities yet to establish their relationship with the affected children of Amherst fourth-grade students. The Amherst County Sheriff’s Office is actively pursuing leads, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the inquiry.
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Legal Ramifications and School Response
In a news released by ABC News, charges against Dugan include contributing to the delinquency of a minor and felonious possession of a firearm, while Sanders faces charges of contributing to delinquency and possession of a controlled substance towards Amherst fourth-grade students. Dugan is held without bail, while Sanders has a $2,500 bond.
Amherst County Public Schools Superintendent William Wells clarified that all affected Amherst fourth-grade students received medical care and returned home safely. As a precaution, the school underwent thorough cleaning. The incident highlights the importance of scrutinizing edibles brought to schools and the need for increased security measures to ensure the well-being of students in educational environments.
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