Rockville, Maryland — A Halloween candy scare in a Maryland town was revealed to be a prank by a 9-year-old who placed sewing needles in their own candy bag.

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Initially, police warned residents to inspect all candy after reports of needles in gummy bear packages.

The Rockville City Police Department confirmed that the candy scare was a hoax orchestrated by the child within the household where the report originated.

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The child’s parents spoke with their children again, and the 9-year-old confessed to inserting needles into the candy just before their parents scanned it with a magnet.

No other incidents were reported, and police confirmed there was no malicious tampering with candy.

The police chief commended officers for their swift response and thorough investigation.

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