Authorities take Perry High student into custody after gun brought to school

Amy L. Knapp
Updated ·2 min read
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PERRY TWP. – A 16-year-old Perry High School student was taken into custody Wednesday morning after he brought a firearm on school property.

Officials determined there were no verbal or written threats directed at students or staff, and the school day continued as scheduled.

According to a letter to Perry families from Superintendent Nate Stutz, the student was taken into custody by Perry Township police after a search revealed the student had a gun. Officials did not elaborate on the type of firearm that was found or why it was brought to school.

Police Chief Bryan Taylor said a school resource officer was conducting regular duties and discovered the student with the firearm. The school resource officer immediately secured the weapon without incident or injuries, the chief said.

"The swift and decisive action by law enforcement ensured the safety and security of students and staff at the school," Taylor said.

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The student is awaiting disciplinary and legal action, he added.

Stutz said the school resource officer and building administration acted quickly upon discovering the firearm.

The district, he said in the letter, is dedicated to making the safety and well-being of students and staff a top priority.

"Any situation that could potentially threaten or harm our students and staff is addressed with our fullest attention and dealt with accordingly," Stutz wrote.

He declined to comment further, citing the ongoing investigation.

The district has as zero-tolerance policy regarding the possession of any weapon on school grounds. The student is facing disciplinary action under the Board of Education policy and student code of conduct.

Taylor said firearms have no place in schools and he urged parents and guardians to have an open and honest discussion with their children about the serious consequences of bringing weapons to school. He also said it was important to report any suspicious behavior to authorities immediately.

Reach Amy at 330-775-1135 or amy.knapp@indeonline.com.

This article originally appeared on The Independent: Perry High student found with gun facing legal, disciplinary action