A Caroline High School student was arrested Wednesday morning after a deputy in an unmarked sheriff’s office vehicle spotted him pull what was later determined to be a toy gun from his waistband while pretending to argue with another student.
The deputy ran toward the student and implored him to drop the gun. According to a statement from Superintendent Sarah Calveric, the student complied and dropped the gun, which was later found to be a toy Glock that shoots foam projectiles.
Calveric noted that the student with the pretend weapon “is now facing legal and school-based consequences.”
Caroline Sheriff Scott Moser told the Free Press that the student is facing charges of possession of a firearm on school property and brandishing a firearm. He was transported to Merrimack Juvenile Detention Center in James City County.
A message was sent to parents informing them of the incident and reiterating student and staff safety. A second update from Principal Tom Connolly let parents know that the day was proceeding as scheduled.
Calveric said that while the student perceived the incident as a “joke amongst friends,” Caroline County Public Schools has “zero tolerance for this type of behavior.”
“Parents, it is crucial that you discuss with your students the seriousness of any behavior that suggests violence, harm or threats to others,” Calveric said in a message to families. “Even if intended as a prank/joke, such behavior is unacceptable and will result in severe consequences.”
Calveric also encouraged parents to remind their children to report any suspicious behavior or activity immediately to an adult.
