A Tennessee mother faces serious charges. Candice Hickson, 43, was arrested recently. Her two young children were hospitalized. This happened after they consumed her THC gummies. The incident occurred on November 28. Gibson County deputies responded to a home. They found a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old unresponsive. Hickson told deputies the children found her gummies. The products were stored in the bathroom. Deputies observed the children in a critical state. Both were rushed to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Fortunately, they were released within 48 hours. The children are now in state custody. They have been placed with the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. Hickson failed a drug test. It showed methamphetamine use. She faces charges of child abuse, neglect, and endangerment. Her bail is set at $25,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 16.
Legal THC Products and Safety Concerns
THC hemp gummies are legal for adults over 21 in Tennessee. State law mandates specific safety measures. Bill SB 0378 requires child-resistant packaging. Secure storage is also mandatory for these products. They are designed to resemble candy. This similarity poses a significant risk to children. Accidental ingestion is a serious concern. Sheriff Paul Thomas emphasized this point. He noted that these products need careful handling. They should be treated like any medication. They must be locked up and kept out of children’s reach.
Broader Context of Pediatric Exposures
This case highlights a growing national trend. Pediatric cannabis exposures are on the rise. This trend is observed in states with legalized cannabis. Some research suggests parental cannabis use has mixed effects on child welfare. Studies indicate a potential link to increased physical abuse. However, the impact on neglect is less clear. There are also documented cases where children were removed from parents due to marijuana presence. These situations sometimes raise questions about DCS actions and potential bias. For instance, one case involved children removed after a traffic stop for a minor marijuana offense. This led to a civil rights lawsuit against DCS workers.
Official Statements and Parental Responsibility
District Attorney General Frederick H. Agee addressed the case. He stated the office would prosecute within the law. He also noted the need to help Hickson with addiction treatment. His goal is a safe reunion with her children. Agee acknowledged that no deaths are known solely from legal hemp THC gummies. However, he stressed the importance of securing legal substances. Parents must keep them away from children. This includes drugs with potent effects.
Evolving Landscape of Cannabis and Awareness
The availability of cannabis products is increasing. This includes various edibles and infused items. Awareness about safe storage is crucial. This is especially true as cannabis-themed content becomes more common in entertainment. Media, including cannabis themed tv, streaming, movies, and news, often portrays these products. This exposure requires parents to be extra vigilant. Secure storage prevents tragic accidents. The legal status of these products requires responsible adult use. It also demands strict precautions for child safety. The goal is to prevent such incidents from recurring.
