Update as of 5 p.m.: Three students at Lakewood High School are under investigation and are facing potential charges following alleged drug use and distribution on campus.
ORIGINAL COVERAGE: Sumter County investigators and the Sumter School District are investigating alleged drug use and distribution at Lakewood High School.
According to the Sumter County Sheriff's Office, investigators are currently at Lakewood High School working with the school administration related to recent incidents and rumors of students and drug use and distribution on school property.
Officials say there have been recent incidents of students not feeling well and having sought medical treatment.
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Earlier this week, one student was transported by ambulance due to an illness.
According to the SCSO, many social media rumors have spread quickly this week regarding potential student overdoses and possible drug-related death.
There have been no student deaths in Sumter County despite rumors.
Some student illnesses are being investigated for possible connections to vape pens and edibles that may have contained tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Sumter School District officials are working in conjunction with investigators.
“The safety of our students is our number one priority. It is important that we all understand the severity of this situation because these substances are not safe. Parents/guardians are encouraged to stress to their children the importance of notifying school officials immediately if they are aware of any suspicious activity. In addition, parents/guardians are asked to talk to their children about the dangers of vaping, consuming edibles, and drug use, and how to resist peer pressure. Together, we can help ensure the safety of our students,” said Superintendent Dr. William Wright.
Sheriff Dennis of the SCSO urged students and parents to be cautious about going to social media and explained the importance of students reporting incidents to the proper authorities. He also stressed the dangers of accepting or purchasing possible drug-related items from other students including vape pens and food items.
“Not only can these items be detrimental to the student’s health and safety, but they are also unlawful. Violators that are possessing or distributing these types of items in the school will be prosecuted accordingly. The safety and future of these students are the future of our community”, said Sheriff Dennis.