The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
‘Tainted’ cupcakes prompt police probe
Police, Gilbert School: Treats contained foreign substance
WINCHESTER » Connecticut police are investigating reports of cupcakes tainted with a bodily fluid that were brought to school.
The Winchester police chief says the department received complaints about suspected cupcakes that were brought to The Gilbert School in Winsted.
In a statement, Principal Alan Strauss says two sets of parents spoke with police. He says it is unclear if charges have been pressed.
At this time, police do not believe that the substance reported to have been introduced into the cupcake batter and/or frosting is toxic or poisonous, and no students or staff have reported be-
coming ill as a result of ingesting the suspected tainted cupcakes.
Strauss says the cupcakes were brought in by a student, and the school does not know what the fluid was.
“Police are interviewing students and staff to determine the origin of the cupcakes and if in fact, any substances, including body fluids, were introduced into the cupcakes; one item is being delivered to the State Forensic Science Lab for analysis,” Police Chief William Fitzgerald said in a statement.
Officials with the lab said the foreign substance may have been burned away in the cooking process, Fitzgerld said, and a similar batter may be necessary to determine what it was.
The principal says the school is “vigorously investigating” the incident.
Strauss said, “We take all matters of disrespect, any violations of one’s space or rights, or any forms of harassment very seriously.” Anyone who has information on this incident is urged to contact the Winchester Police Department at 860379-2721.