Boy ‘totally out of it after being given a spiked vape’ on his way to school

A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of supplying drugs after a year 8 pupil was given a ‘spiked’ vape.

Last week, the boy’s parents said their son was ‘totally out of it’ after trying the vape on Wednesday morning.

The incident was reported to have taken place on the school bus en route to North Gosforth Academy in Seaton Burn, Northumbria.

The pupil was taken to the hospital for treatment, but was discharged the same day.

Northumbria Police officers have now confirmed that a teenage boy has been arrested – and released on police bail.

The officers have also appealed for anyone who may have further information to contact the force in order to assist with the investigation.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: ‘At about 8.30am on Wednesday, February 4, we received a report of concern for the welfare of a teenager in the Dudley area of North Tyneside. It was reported that the teenager had inhaled on a vape and began to feel unwell.

‘Emergency services attended, where the teenager was taken to hospital for assessment – he has since been discharged.

‘A teenage boy was subsequently arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class B drugs.’

The alleged victim’s father has called on parents and their children to be aware of the dangers of vaping – and the risks of spiking.

He told ChronicleLive: ‘It seems a lot of youngsters are vaping now. I want to create awareness around the borough for parents and kids with vapes.’

Vapes have been the latest target for spiking victims with drugs, with more than 6,700 cases reported in the first half of 2023 in England and Wales.

Helena Conibear, chief executive of the Alcohol Education Trust, said: ‘We have heard of people unknowingly using vapes which contain THC or spice in them.

‘Very little is known about vape spiking as it is a new phenomenon. We are very much in the dark about how it operates.’

Several victims of spiking spoke about their traumatic experiences, calling for further action.

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