A 15-year-old student arrived at Joppatowne High School Thursday morning with a loaded handgun hidden in his belongings, according to the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.
What’s Happening: The school’s weapons detection system flagged a possible threat as students were arriving. A school safety staff member searched the student, and a deputy assigned to the school detained him. The search turned up a loaded handgun.
What’s New: The student was taken to the Sheriff’s Office Southern Precinct, where charges are being filed. The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, which handles cases involving minors, will determine what happens next.
What This Means for You: Students and parents who see, hear, or learn about anything unusual at school are asked to report it immediately to school staff or the deputy assigned to the building.
The Path Forward: Because the student is 15, his case falls under the juvenile justice system. The Department of Juvenile Services will review the case and decide on next steps, which can include diversion programs, supervision, or referral to juvenile court.
