I'm Not Afraid of Consequences

So, I recently found out that one of my students was sneaking candy into class. Instead of punishing them, I offered to be their accomplice. We now have a secret stash hidden in the classroom ceiling tiles. Every day before lunch, we sneak some treats and share them with other curious kids who promise not to tattle. Now everyone thinks I'm the coolest teacher ever. Am I just being lenient or actually fostering trust? What do you think about this approach?