A Guatemalan national was released on his own recognizance Thursday after allegedly selling tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) gummies that caused the hospitalization of a dozen New York middle-schoolers in March.

Wilmer Castillo Garcia, 22, is accused of endangering the welfare of a child after 12 students from William Floyd Middle School were brought to Peconic Bay Hospital on the same day, according to Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney.

The children became ill after eating gummies laced with THC, a compound found in cannabis that is known for causing a high or euphoric effect. The candies were traced to an Instagram account, which led investigators to Castillo Garcia, Tierney said.

Some THC-infused candy packaging can appear similar to popular name-brand candy. (The North Carolina Secretary of State)

When asked about his client’s release, Tuohy said Castillo Garcia is not a flight risk.

“He hired an attorney, he was present in court at his own volition, and he showed he’s not a risk of flight,” Tuohy said. “These are drug cases, not violent cases, so they’re not bail-eligible. At the same time, I don’t think there was an intent to harm anybody, on anybody’s part. It’s an unfortunate situation, and we’re going to do the best we can to resolve it in the best possible way.”

Castillo Garcia is due back in court Sept. 2 and faces up to nine years in prison if convicted of the top count.