by ROCKVILLE, Maryland — A Halloween scare that sent shockwaves through a Maryland community turned out to be nothing more than a prank pulled by a 9-year-old child, according to Rockville police. Authorities confirmed that the child had inserted sewing needles into bags of their own candy, leading to widespread fear and warnings about tampered Halloween treats.
Initial Panic Over “Needle in Candy” Report
The case began when Rockville police received a report that a child had discovered a sewing needle lodged inside a package of gummy bears in their Trick-or-Treat stash. Officers initially believed the tainted candy had come from a home near Welsh Drive and W. Edmonston Drive, prompting police to issue urgent safety alerts.
Photos released by authorities showed silver sewing needles embedded in unopened candy bags, sparking concerns across the city and beyond. Police advised all residents to inspect their children’s Halloween candy before consumption.
The Truth Behind the Scare
By Monday, the Rockville City Police Department revealed that the entire incident was a “hoax” orchestrated by a 9-year-old child living in the same household where the report originated.
“The incident was a hoax carried out by a 9-year-old child within the household where the report originated. The child admitted to placing sewing needles in two packages of gummy bears,” the department announced on Facebook.
Police said the child’s parents discovered the needles after running a magnet test over the candy bags — a precaution that unexpectedly picked up the metal objects. After realizing how much media attention the story was getting, the child confessed to the act.
No Broader Threat to Public Safety
Authorities confirmed that no other cases of candy tampering were reported in Rockville or nearby areas, emphasizing that the incident did not pose any real threat to the community.
“This incident understandably raised concern within our community, and we are grateful that it did not present a broader threat to public safety,” said Rockville City Police Chief Jason L. West. “I commend the professionalism and diligence of our officers and detectives for their swift response and thorough investigation.”
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Parents Reminded to Stay Vigilant
Police typically urge parents to check Halloween candy for signs of tampering, such as loose wrappers or unfamiliar brands. However, recent advisories have shifted toward identifying counterfeit candies infused with recreational drugs, particularly in states where marijuana is legal.
Less than a week before Halloween, Zingerman’s Candy Manufactory issued a recall of its full-size Peanut Butter Crush and Ca$hew Cow bars over undeclared nut allergens — a reminder of how unpredictable Halloween treats can sometimes be.
Community Relief After Clarification
While the hoax caused unnecessary alarm, officials said it served as a valuable reminder for families to remain cautious during the holiday season.
The Rockville Police Department confirmed that no criminal charges will be filed, and the case is being treated as a child-led prank with no malicious intent.
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