Editor’s note: This story was updated to point out the specific school isn’t named since the incident is still under investigation by Loveland Police.
Loveland Police are investigating an incident at a local middle school where medical marijuana edibles were allegedly shared among students.
On Tuesday, during a discussion about Amendment 64 and the city’s future in light of the legalization of recreational marijuana, Chief Luke Hecker told the city council that a local student had brought marijuana edibles into school and shared them with other students.
On Wednesday, Hecker said that the case is under investigation and reserved comment until the investigation is complete. That includes the name of the school involved in the incident.
During the council meeting, Hecker urged councilors to prohibit the retail distribution of marijuana, which under Amendment 64 is left up to the discretion of local communities. The city currently has a ban of medical marijuana businesses that was put in place by the voters, and Hecker believes that should also stay in place.
The marijuana edibles the student allegedly brought in were legally obtained, Hecker said.
Mike Hausmann, public information officer for the Thompson School District, said the district is also waiting for the conclusion of the police investigation. He could not comment about disciplinary actions for the alleged students involved.
Amendment 64 was approved by state voters — including the majority of Larimer County voters — in November and legalizes possession of less than 1 ounce of marijuana for people over 21 years old.
It remains illegal for anyone under 21 to possess or use pot.
“Our schools are drug free zones and always have been and that’s what we will continue to enforce,” Hausmann said.
Since 2000, use of medical marijuana has been legal for licensed users in Colorado. Those in favor of banning medical marijuana dispensaries, including a group of Berthoud citizens who advocated for banning them in the town last year, have argued that increased access to pot has a negative impact on kids.
Jessica Maher can be reached at 669-5050 ext. 516 or maherj@reporter-herald.com. Follow her on Twitter: @JessicaMaherRH.
