DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews)
– A Houston County family made a disturbing discovery over the weekend when they found 100 ecstasy pills hidden inside a stuffed animal they had just purchased.
According to the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the family noticed a tear on the side of the toy after bringing it home. Upon inspecting the damage, they discovered a ziplock bag inside the toy containing the pills, which were orange and shaped like clouds.
Sheriff’s investigators confirmed the pills tested positive for MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy.
The toy “Fuggler,” short for “Funny Ugly Monster,” was still inside its retail packaging and marketed for children ages 4 and up. Sergeant Brandon Barnes said the pills could have easily been mistaken for candy.
“This stuffed animal was purchased in good faith by a local family. There’s no indication the store that sold it is at fault,” Sgt. Barnes said. “We believe this item was transported in bulk from a larger city before reaching our area.”
Barnes noted that Fugglers come in various types and designs, and some contain features that could be concerning to parents, such as red eyes or a button on the backside.
The sheriff’s office is urging parents to remain aware of what they are purchasing for their children.
“If something seems suspicious, call us. We’ll scan it and make sure everything is okay,” Sheriff Donald Valenza said.
Although isolated, this is not the first time drugs have been found concealed in toys, authorities said. The sheriff’s office emphasized that criminals often try new ways to smuggle narcotics.
No arrests have been made at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.
