Indiana police have apprehended a man for mixing narcotics like Xanax and heroin into pieces that are disguised to look like the popular candy SweeTarts. They’re concerned that local teens and kids in Greenfield, IN are at risk of consuming the colorful treats, potentially unaware of the embedded risks — and that they’d be dealing with much more than just a sugar high after popping one of the candies, which authorities are referring to as “Sweet Tarts.”
The arrest of 30-year-old Jeramie Smith follows a multi-month investigation. During a search of Smith’s house, the authorities discovered methamphetamine, syringes, and baggies.
“These drugs post a threat to unsuspecting children whom believe them to be candy,” the police department added in their statement, urging parents to speak with their children about the inherent risks of the drugs — and to notify the department if they come across any of the pastel-colored pastilles. (They collected about 100 from the suspect’s residence.) Smith faces several charges including dealing and possession of a controlled substance.
Looks like that old adage — “Don’t take candy from strangers” — remains just as relevant now as ever.
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
- Biden’s Campaign Is In Trouble. Will the Turnaround Plan Work?
- Why We're Spending So Much Money Now
- The Financial Influencers Women Actually Want to Listen To
- Breaker Sunny Choi Is Heading to Paris
- Why TV Can’t Stop Making Silly Shows About Lady Journalists
- The Case for Wearing Shoes in the House
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
Write to Raisa Bruner at raisa.bruner@time.com