14-year-old with Cannabis cookies in Anguilla

The Royal Anguilla Police Force lodged a report of a 14-year-old female student of Campus Q of Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School for possessing cannabis.

The officers recovered four cannabis cookies from a female student of the institution.

The police officials have started their preliminary investigations into the matter and have stated that ensuring the safety and well-being of the students is their main priority.

The officials added that the investigation is ongoing, and they are looking into the matter to know about the depth behind this incident.

They have referred this case to the Child Justice Board for giving a fair and supportive approach to the issues regarding young blood. They stated that they believe in providing the necessary guidance and all the support they need to help the youth to make correct decisions and avoid getting into trouble.

The Royal Anguilla Police Force added that their motive is to provide a safe and secure environment for all the students to enhance their growth and well-being.

To achieve this goal, they are planning to connect with their teachers, parents, guardians and all the community members to help them learn and grow in their lives.

The officials of the Royal Anguilla Police Force have made a request to the parents, teachers and guardians of students to be aware of what their children consume, what they obtain and from whom they obtain.

Such initiatives will play a huge role in dismissing bad situations and will keep the children safe and protected.

Reactions of people regarding this incident:

Various people have shared their concerns regarding the incident

One person commented: What is wrong with some of the children? To that comment, someone replied that it is very likely that behind these misguided children is an adult preying on their innocence. There’s an obvious need for some intervention.

Another person commented: I believe that in early 2022, the first juveniles appeared before the board. When a child is in police care, there is a stipulated time frame for probation to conduct an assessment. The board consists of various required persons as outlined in the act and is chaired by a Magistrate. It is an informal setting, so instead of in a court setting with the magistrate sitting up high, it is in a conference room, etc. Certain officers cannot be diverted, but it gives the opportunity for juveniles to get the help needed without the formality and conviction.

All in all, there is an urgent need to guide the students for what is right for them and what isn’t so they avoid the potential pitfalls.