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Illegal vapes with cartoon packaging seized in Kansas

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A county sheriff is warning parents in the Wichita area about illegal vape cartridges that are packaged with cartoons and contain high levels of THC, the compound that gives marijuana its high.

Image courtesy Sedgwick Co. Sheriff

Sedgwick County deputies recently seized THC-infused vape cartridges intended for medical marijuana use, which were smuggled into the state from California, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter. The cartridges contain 80-90 percent THC, which is more than most marijuana products seized by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.

Kansas law prohibits possessing or distributing THC vape products. It’s also illegal for anyone under 18 to sell, buy or possess any type of electronic cigarette.

The vapes found in the Wichita area may cause symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome , such as nausea and vomiting, Easter said. It’s unclear whether any children have been affected by the product.

The county sheriff said police are concerned that children are being targeted because the colorful packaging is decorated with cartoon characters, such as Looney Tunes’ Pepe Le Pew and Disney’s Goofy.

The vape flavoring masks the odor of marijuana, which could make it difficult for parents to identify the smell, Easter said.

“I guarantee you there’s kids that have been bringing this home or people bringing it home living with their parents and grandparents and they have no idea what it is,” he said.

The sheriff directed parents to call 911 if they find their kids in possession of the products.

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