A former Ocean Springs High School student has been arrested after allegedly using a weapon to threaten a current student.
Police took an unidentified 18-year-old into custody on Thursday on a misdemeanor charge of having a weapon on educational property. Law enforcement did not specify what type of weapon was reportedly used during the incident, which occurred after the final bell had sounded to dismiss pupils.
“We wanted to make you aware of an incident that took place in the parking lot of our campus following dismissal this afternoon that involved a former student brandishing a weapon to threaten one of our current students,” a statement from the Ocean Springs School District reads.
“None of our students or staff were harmed, and the individual has since been arrested by OSSD PD. OSSD has also filed charges for possession of a weapon on school property. We want to assure you there is no ongoing threat to the safety of our students and staff.”
School District officials reiterated their commitment to keeping students safe, which includes a “zero tolerance policy” for weapons or violence on campus. Officials further thanked campus police and local law enforcement for taking swift action to take the subject into custody.
“OSSD has zero tolerance for possession of weapons on school property, including objects intended to resemble a weapon, or any other instrument considered to be dangerous,” district officials further stated. “We are thankful for the quick and efficient work of OSHS Administration, OSSD PD, and OSPD to quickly identify the individual and to handle the manner in a safe and orderly manner.”
Counseling services are available at Ocean Springs High School for the time being. Parents and guardians are currently being asked to talk to their youth about the importance of school safety, while also checking their backpacks and personal belongings to ensure nothing illicit is being brought to campus. Those who witness any sort of suspicious activity on campus are asked to notify police as soon as possible.
“To help ensure our students feel as safe and comfortable as possible, there will be an increased visible police presence on campus tomorrow,” the statement reads. “We thank you for your understanding and continued partnership in keeping our school a safe place to learn. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact OSHS at (228) 875-0333.”