Local Dispensary Owner Talks Safety Tips

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – News 12 spoke with local dispensary owner David Rutherford, who owns Journey Hemp in St. Elmo.

Rutherford responded to the Lakeview Middle school incident.

He said protecting kids from THC products is both the dispensary and the parent’s responsibility.

For parents, one of the biggest tips is educating your child.

“You just want to sit them down and show them the product and show them it is an 18 and over product just like it would be for cigarettes or firearms, you know. And when they get that age they’ll be able to obtain that particular product. But at this time, it’s not good for them,” Rutherford said.

Rutherford advised keeping THC products stored in a high, locked away place.

He also warned parents to keep their products in the original packaging, or else they could be mistaken for regular candy.

Dispensaries should have clear labeling on their products and only sell to people 21 and up.