Man, 76, arrested on suspicion of administering poison at summer camp after eight children taken to hospital

Yahoo

3 days ago

A 76-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of administering poison at a summer camp which led to eight children being taken to hospital, police said.
Police received reports of children feeling unwell at a summer camp in Canal Lane, Stathern, Leicestershire, on Monday.
Paramedics assessed eight children, who were taken to hospital as a precaution and have all now been discharged.
The suspect was arrested at the camp and remains in custody on suspicion of administering poison with intent to injure/aggrieve/annoy.
This morning, there has been police activity outside Stathern Lodge in the village's Canal Lane.
Detective Inspector Neil Holden said: "We understand the concern this incident will have caused to parents, guardians and the surrounding community.
"We are in contact with the parents and guardians of all children concerned.
"Please be reassured that we have several dedicated resources deployed and are working with partner agencies including children's services to ensure full safeguarding is provided to the children involved.
"We also remain at the scene to carry out enquiries into the circumstances of what has happened and to continue to provide advice and support in the area.
"This is a complex and sensitive investigation and we will continue to provide updates to both parents and guardians and the public as and when we can."
The force said it has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) over what it said was the "circumstances of the initial police response".