Asheville Student Charged with Felony Possession of Firearm on School Grounds

Asheville: Student Charged with Felony Possession of Firearm on School Grounds

A student at Asheville Middle School has been charged with a felony after being found with a Glock pistol on school grounds, despite the gun not being loaded, according to recent information from the Asheville Police Department.

Details of the Incident

The student, whose name and age were redacted from the police report, was discovered with the gun during a search conducted by school administrators, with a parent of the student present, said Principal Jo Landreth. The student has been charged with felony possession of a firearm on school grounds, confirmed APD spokesperson Samantha Booth. Additionally, there was evidence of a misdemeanor drug offense, as per the incident report.

Although the gun was found unloaded, Booth emphasized that it is still a chargeable offense under the law. The Asheville Police Department, in consultation with the Department of Juvenile Justice, made the decision to levy the charge against the juvenile.

Questions Arise

While details about how the student acquired the gun, the reason for bringing it to school, and the potential involvement of the parent remain unclear, these are crucial questions that authorities may be investigating. The case of a 2021 Michigan school shooting, where the shooter’s mother was found guilty, highlights the potential culpability of parents in such incidents.

School Response and Safety Measures

According to Asheville City Schools spokesperson April Dockery, the gun was not being carried by the student but was found among their belongings. The school administration followed safety protocols diligently to ensure the well-being of students and staff during the incident.

Following the discovery, the student was taken into custody by juvenile justice officials on the same day. However, details about the student’s current status in the department’s custody remain confidential, citing juvenile privacy laws.

Importance of Reporting

Reporting such incidents to law enforcement and state education officials is a mandatory requirement under North Carolina law. It not only helps in making decisions regarding school safety but also enables parents and the community to stay informed about incidents occurring on school premises.

Investigative Highlights

Asheville City Schools’ compliance with reporting requirements has come under scrutiny following a 2023 investigation by the Citizen Times, which revealed instances where the school system failed to report crimes, including weapons-related incidents, to the state education board.

In light of such incidents, ensuring transparency and accountability in reporting and handling such cases becomes crucial for maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students.

Conclusion

Asheville Middle School’s recent incident involving a student found with a gun underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and adherence to protocols in educational institutions. The collaborative efforts of school administrators, law enforcement, and juvenile justice officials in addressing such incidents are vital for ensuring the well-being of students and maintaining a secure educational environment.

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