TL/DR –
A 15-year-old student at Ottawa Hills High School in Michigan was found with a loaded, stolen gun in their backpack. The student has been charged with one count of carrying a concealed weapon, one count of weapons-free school zone violation, and minor in possession of marijuana. Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker said the charges are meant to provide an opportunity for rehabilitation, not necessarily incarceration, and that efforts will be made to provide support to the teen so they can make healthier choices.
Leaders Seek Rehabilitation for Teen Found with Loaded Gun at Ottawa Hills High School
Leaders in Kent County, Michigan, are voicing concern after a loaded gun was discovered in a teen’s backpack at Ottawa Hills High School on Tuesday.
Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom commented, “It’s unfortunate, but it could propel the city towards improved safety measures.” The stolen firearm was found in a 15-year-old’s bag during a metal detector screening.
Despite this incident, Winstrom noted a decline in juvenile-involved violence in Grand Rapids due to prevention efforts. He encouraged community support to prevent such incidents.
Kent County Prosecutor’s Office Charges
The teen faces charges for carrying a concealed weapon and a weapons-free school zone violation, both felonies. He was also charged with being a minor in possession of marijuana, a misdemeanor offense.
Prosecutor Chris Becker emphasized that the charges aim for rehabilitation rather than jail time. “The juvenile system aims to rehabilitate. We aim to understand the family and individual circumstances and provide the appropriate programming,” he said.
Winstrom agreed, insisting that providing robust support in academics, sports, and arts could discourage teens from violence.
The police are investigating if an adult played a role in this case and tracing the origins of the stolen firearm.
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