BROOKLINE, Mass. — A disoriented Brookline teenager jumped from a window after he took illegal “magic mushrooms” that he allegedly purchased from a man who is now facing drug charges, authorities said.
Officers launched an investigation into a suspected drug dealer in Brookline Village named “Niko” and learned that the 22-year-old man had taken a “particular interest in selling to underage teens,” according to the Brookline Police Department.
Investigators say the man purchased the drugs “not suitable for kids,” including psychedelic mushrooms, at local marijuana dispensaries and sold them to his “many teen customers.”
“Many of these items have found their way onto the campus of Brookline High School, where students have been caught with items alleged to have been purchased from Niko,” the department wrote in a statement.
One of the alleged customers suffered severe physical injuries after ingesting mushrooms and became so disoriented that he jumped from a sixth-story window, suffering severe injuries, police said.
The department shared a slideshow of items that were recovered after a search warrant was executed in connection with Niko’s arrest, as well as a warning for local parents.
Many of the items are stored in bags designed to look like candy wrappers.
“Do you recognize any of the items in the pictures? These are items recovered after a search warrant and arrest of an accused drug dealer who targeted Brookline teens,” the department wrote. “Many kids are unwitting victims of his harmful chemicals and toxins. So, if you see some of these items in your teen’s room, don’t dismiss them as typical harmless pocket junk. Pay attention, and protect your kids from harmful substances.”
At Brookline High School, one parent said she is mindful of the issue of teens and drugs.
“Definitely a big concern, we don’t know where it’s coming from. We’re completely oblivious to what’s happening. So, it’s a big concern, especially not knowing,” said Sandra Cerda.
“It is concerning people are taking these illicit drugs, but I think we have it relatively good here in Brookline,” said Brookline High School freshman Amedeo Bettauer.
An investigation remains ongoing.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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