Moorhead (trfnews.i234.me) — Two Moorhead parents were arrested after suspected THC candy made several middle school students sick.
Martin Jay Hulst, 40, and Amanda Rhae Hulst, 43, were arrested on Wednesday, May 20. Police said both were taken into custody on felony drug allegations.
The case began Monday, May 18, at Horizon Middle School East Campus. Police said a child brought candy suspected of containing THC to the school.
The east campus serves more than 1,400 seventh and eighth-grade students. The school is part of Moorhead Area Public Schools.
Students Became Sick At School
Authorities said 12 students ingested the substance. The first report listed 10 students, but that number later increased.
THC is the main chemical in cannabis that can cause a high. It is found in some edible products.
Two students were taken by ambulance to a local hospital. Other students were released to their families.
School officials said the incident began when several students came to the health office. They were showing similar symptoms, including nausea.
Search Warrant Led To Drug Allegations
On Tuesday, Moorhead officers searched a home in the 1100 block of 10½ Street North.
Police said investigators found suspected THC products, including flower, cartridges, and wax. They also reported finding psychedelic mushrooms and a large amount of cash.
The Hulsts were not at home during the search. Police said they were arrested early Wednesday in Moorhead.
Authorities said the current allegations are tied to items found during the search. They are not directly tied to what happened at the school.
Police also said the allegations are not based only on THC. Minnesota allows some cannabis use for adults 21 and older. More information is available from the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management.
Jail Records List Felony Allegations
Martin Hulst was listed in the Clay County jail on a first-degree felony possession allegation.
Amanda Hulst was listed on a first-degree felony narcotics sale allegation. Formal charges had not been filed as of Wednesday afternoon.
Multiple children living in the home were referred to Clay County Social Services.
Investigators are still interviewing students. Police said more allegations could be possible as the case develops.
Second School Drug Case This Year
This is the second drug-related case at Horizon Middle School this school year.
In December, a 13-year-old student was arrested after allegedly bringing about 1,500 pills to school. Authorities said the pills may have contained fentanyl.
Superintendent Brandon Lunak said families need to talk with children about drugs and safety. He said these incidents came from outside the school.
Officials also urged adults to keep THC products away from children. They said secure storage is important in every home.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.