'New Wave Of Causing Harm' For Suburban Youth; 'Whippits' Make A Comeback: Police Chief

SUGAR GROVE, IL — At least one suburban police chief is saying that parents should be on the lookout for a growing issue regarding area youth inhaling nitrous oxide, which is also known as "laughing gas" and "whippets."

Sugar Grove Police Chief Patrick Rollins said large canisters of the laughing gas are being marketed to kids with names like "Miami Magic" and colorful designs, according to the Daily Herald. They can be found at suburban tobacco and vape shops.

“It’s just become a new wave of causing harm,” he said.

In a 2024 report, the Drug Enforcement Administration lists nitrous oxide as "often among the first drugs that young children use," with one in five children reporting they have used inhalants by eighth grade.

More via the Daily Herald