West Palm Beach Police Alert: Fentanyl Disguised as Candy Poses Halloween Threat

As Halloween approaches, the West Palm Beach Police Department (WPBPD) is issuing a critical warning to residents: be vigilant about the potential presence of fentanyl disguised as candy.

 

During a recent traffic stop, officers seized brightly colored fentanyl designed to resemble pearlescent gumballs, commonly referred to as 'rainbow fentanyl.'

 

Detectives believe that traffickers are intentionally producing fentanyl in candy-like forms to attract children and young adults, thereby increasing addiction rates.

 

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Even trace amounts can be fatal.

 

In 2025 alone, WPBPD has removed more than 8.1 pounds of fentanyl from city streets—a quantity capable of causing thousands of overdoses.

 

As Halloween nears, we urge everyone to take extra precautions. If you believe you or your child may have come into contact with fentanyl in any form, do not touch it and call 911 immediately. Your safety is our top priority, and swift action can save lives.

 

To ensure a safe Halloween, the WPBPD recommends the following:

 

Inspect all candy and treats before allowing children to consume them.

 

Learn the signs of a fentanyl overdose, which can include drowsiness, confusion, and respiratory distress.

 

Seek help for substance use disorders by contacting local support services.

 

Report any suspicious drug activity to law enforcement immediately.

 

By staying alert and working together, the community can help keep this deadly drug out of our neighborhoods and ensure a safe and fun Halloween for all.