Texas man accused of turning Easter scavenger hunt into illegal scheme
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Easter egg hunts are often filled with candy, laughter, and cheerful gatherings that bring families and neighbors together.
But in one Texas town, a recent event took an unexpected turn.
What started as a seemingly festive community activity has now become the subject of a police investigation—and a cautionary reminder about how quickly holiday traditions can be misused.
In Lufkin, Texas, local police are searching for 23-year-old Avante Nicholson, who is accused of organizing an Easter scavenger hunt involving plastic eggs filled with marijuana.
According to authorities, Nicholson distributed these eggs across several public parks and behind a local motel on April 20—a date often associated with cannabis culture.
Police say Avante Nicholson promoted the event on social media.
According to authorities, he provided clues to individuals who purchased marijuana from him that day.
The eggs were reportedly hidden at Morris Frank Park, Winston Park, Grace Dunn Richardson Park, and behind a Motel 6.
The situation came to light when a man and his granddaughter came across one of the eggs at Winston Park the following day.
Unaware of its contents or the nature of the event, they brought the egg to the police department.
The discovery sparked concern over the safety of children and families who frequent public parks, especially during community celebrations.
Texas maintains strict laws regarding marijuana possession and distribution.
According to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), penalties can range from misdemeanor charges to serious felonies, depending on the circumstances.
Nicholson now faces four felony warrants for charges related to the delivery of marijuana in designated drug-free zones.
These zones typically include schools, parks, and other public spaces, where enhanced penalties apply.
Lufkin Police Chief David Thomas emphasized the importance of safeguarding public spaces, especially when children are involved.
The police department is encouraging anyone with information about Nicholson’s whereabouts to contact CrimeStoppers anonymously at (936) 639-8477, or at www.639tips.com.
Authorities say this case is also an example of how social media can be used to promote activities that place public safety at risk.
While creativity and community engagement are often welcome during holiday events, this case serves as a reminder that these traditions should always be rooted in safety and shared values.
Celebrations like Easter are meant to foster joy and togetherness—not create hazards or legal consequences.
Read next: An ordinary day—until it wasn’t. What sent shoppers fleeing from this Walmart?
We at The GrayVine would love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever experienced a local event that took an unexpected turn? How do you think social media affects the way we celebrate holidays today? Let’s discuss how to protect the spirit of community traditions while keeping our neighborhoods safe.
But in one Texas town, a recent event took an unexpected turn.
What started as a seemingly festive community activity has now become the subject of a police investigation—and a cautionary reminder about how quickly holiday traditions can be misused.
In Lufkin, Texas, local police are searching for 23-year-old Avante Nicholson, who is accused of organizing an Easter scavenger hunt involving plastic eggs filled with marijuana.
According to authorities, Nicholson distributed these eggs across several public parks and behind a local motel on April 20—a date often associated with cannabis culture.
A recent incident in Texas involving Easter eggs has raised concerns about community safety during holiday events. Image Source: Pexels / Antoni Shkraba Studio.
Police say Avante Nicholson promoted the event on social media.
According to authorities, he provided clues to individuals who purchased marijuana from him that day.
The eggs were reportedly hidden at Morris Frank Park, Winston Park, Grace Dunn Richardson Park, and behind a Motel 6.
Discovery raises concerns for families
The situation came to light when a man and his granddaughter came across one of the eggs at Winston Park the following day.
Unaware of its contents or the nature of the event, they brought the egg to the police department.
The discovery sparked concern over the safety of children and families who frequent public parks, especially during community celebrations.
Also read: This Easter egg trick got attention for all the wrong reasons
Texas marijuana laws and criminal charges
Texas maintains strict laws regarding marijuana possession and distribution.
According to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), penalties can range from misdemeanor charges to serious felonies, depending on the circumstances.
Nicholson now faces four felony warrants for charges related to the delivery of marijuana in designated drug-free zones.
These zones typically include schools, parks, and other public spaces, where enhanced penalties apply.
Authorities say plastic eggs found in a Texas park contained illegal substances, prompting a community safety investigation. Image Source: YouTube / CBS19.
Also read: One day, zero warehouses?! Why Costco’s taking a breather…and why you have to say goodbye to some other stores too.
Community response and police involvement
Lufkin Police Chief David Thomas emphasized the importance of safeguarding public spaces, especially when children are involved.
The police department is encouraging anyone with information about Nicholson’s whereabouts to contact CrimeStoppers anonymously at (936) 639-8477, or at www.639tips.com.
Authorities say this case is also an example of how social media can be used to promote activities that place public safety at risk.
While creativity and community engagement are often welcome during holiday events, this case serves as a reminder that these traditions should always be rooted in safety and shared values.
Celebrations like Easter are meant to foster joy and togetherness—not create hazards or legal consequences.
Read next: An ordinary day—until it wasn’t. What sent shoppers fleeing from this Walmart?
We at The GrayVine would love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever experienced a local event that took an unexpected turn? How do you think social media affects the way we celebrate holidays today? Let’s discuss how to protect the spirit of community traditions while keeping our neighborhoods safe.
