On Halloween night, residents of Millis, Massachusetts, received an unsettling surprise when sealed foil packets of MiraFAST, an over‑the‑counter laxative, were found mixed in children’s candy. The incident occurred in the neighborhoods around Rolling Meadow, May Road and Paddock Lane.
Police Investigation
Millis police have launched a door‑to‑door investigation to locate the source of the laxative packets. Officers said they do not yet know whether the laxatives were placed intentionally or were the result of a mix‑up. Detectives are speaking with residents and reviewing any surveillance footage that might shed light on how the packets entered the candy haul.
Safety Recommendations for Parents
Local law enforcement is urging parents to take a few simple steps to keep their children safe this Halloween:
- Inspect every piece of candy. Look for any sealed packages that appear out of the ordinary, such as foil‑wrapped items that do not match typical candy packaging.
- Teach kids to report anything unusual. Encourage children to bring any suspicious items to an adult immediately.
- Know the brands. Familiarize yourself with the look of common candy wrappers so you can spot anything that seems off.
If you discover any questionable items, set them aside and contact Millis police at 508‑376‑5112. The department also asks residents to share this warning with neighbors and anyone who was trick‑or‑treating in the area.
Community Response
Neighbors have expressed concern but also gratitude for the swift response from local authorities. “We’re thankful the police are on top of this,” said one Millis resident who prefers not to be named. “It’s a reminder that we need to stay vigilant, especially during holiday celebrations.”
The incident underscores the importance of community cooperation with law‑enforcement efforts to maintain a safe environment for families. While the investigation continues, officials stress that such occurrences are rare and that most Halloween celebrations remain joyful and secure.
What to Do If You Find Something Suspicious
Should you encounter any sealed packets or unfamiliar items in your child’s candy, follow these steps:
- Do not allow the child to consume the item.
- Place the item in a safe container.
- Contact Millis police at the number provided.
- Report the incident to your local health department if you suspect a health‑related concern.
By working together, parents, police and the broader Millis community can ensure that Halloween remains a fun and safe tradition for everyone.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
