Toddler Hospitalized After Accidental Marijuana Edible Overdose

Deschutes Co. Sheriff's Office - 05/31/18

On May 30th, 2018, at approximately 5:15PM, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Deputies and La Pine Fire Paramedics responded to an emergency medical aid call on the 14000 block of White Pine Way, in La Pine. Joy reported that her 2 year old son consumed a THC-infused candy left on a table. First responders arrived to find the toddler in distress. Paramedics transported the 2 year old to St. Charles Medical Center with life-threatening overdose symptoms.
Deputies investigated and determined that Katelynn Joy, the mother of the child, left the THC infused candy unsecured and unattended when the toddler ate it. The mother later discovered the partially eaten candy and waited several hours until the THC overdose symptoms worsened before calling 911.
It was determined that the THC infused candies in this case were homemade and ingredients or amount of THC are unknown. THC stands for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and is the mind-altering ingredient in marijuana that gives the user the intoxication “high”. Unlike tobacco, marijuana edible products are not required to have printed health warnings or safety packaging and are often attractive to children when formed into candies, deserts or beverages. Often the THC doses are made for adults and can be dangerous for children and animals.
Some signs of a marijuana overdose or excessive consumption may include:
  • Rapid heart rate, increasing the risk of heart attack.
  • Hallucinations.
  • Vomiting.
  • Mental confusion.
  • Panic attacks.
  • Extreme paranoia.
While we do not encourage drug use, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office reminds our citizens to protect themselves, children and animals from THC exposure and overdose. Please prevent access to marijuana and THC products from children and do not leave children unattended with these items.
If you suspect a child or animal has consumed marijuana or THC infused products, call 911 or your veterinarian immediately. The Poison Control Center is also available 24/7 at 800-222-1222 and the ASPCA Animal Poision Control is available at 888-426-4435.
18-157634

By: Sgt Kent Vander Kamp
Arrested (Cited in Lieu of Custody): Katelynn Joy, Age 27, of La Pine, Oregon
Charges: Endangering the Welfare of a Minor and Child Neglect II
Victim: 2 Year Old Male

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