Ontario police probe several incidents involving trick or treaters on Halloween

A number of police forces across Ontario are investigating incidents which dampened the fun for certain trick or treaters on Halloween.

Police laid charges against one man for allegedly throwing firecrackers at kids and are searching for other people who allegedly gave a child loose prescription pills with their candy and, in another incident, small bottles of what might be alcohol.

The only incident to involve criminal charges so far took place in central Ontario on Monday night. 

Provincial police with the Peterborough, Ont., detachment say they were called around 7:30 p.m. after receiving a report that a trick or treater had been struck by a firework thrown by an intoxicated man.

Police searched the area and found a man who matched the description of the suspect allegedly carrying fireworks and marijuana in his pockets.

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Cory Sanbach of Havelock, Ont., is facing four charges including assault with a weapon and common nuisance. Police did not indicate whether the child sustained any injuries.

Other police forces reported some alleged efforts to tamper with treats handed out on Halloween.

Police in St. Catharines, Ont., say one parent discovered four prescription muscle relaxants mixed in with her daughter’s candy haul.

In Milton, Ont., Halton Regional Police say one parent came across a mini liquor bottle in her child’s candy bag.

They say the seal on the bottle had been compromised and the bottle was leaking slightly.

Police say they’re currently running tests to determine exactly what fluid was in the bottle.

Ottawa police also briefly opened an investigation after receiving reports of sewing needles inserted into chocolate bars. Hours later, however, they issued a statement saying the complaint was unfounded and the investigation was closed.

In all cases, however, police forces urge parents to carefully inspect the items their children bring home from trick or treating and to be particularly wary of home-made goods, items with compromised packaging or fresh fruit.

Michelle McQuigge, The Canadian Press