Polk High School Students Arrested For Bringing BB Guns To School

HAINES CITY, FL — Two 17-year-old Polk County high school students were arrested for allegedly bringing BB guns to school and using them in a hallway.

The arrests were made at Ridge Community High School on Wednesday morning, according to Haines City police.

"Ensuring the safety of our students is the highest priority of our school resource team and bringing weapons to school is something that we simply will not tolerate," asserted Haines City Police Chief Jim Elensky.

Patch is withholding the names of the students because of their ages. They are each charged with possession of a weapon on school grounds, disruption of a school function and violation of probation.

"Those who saw and reported seeing a gun in this case should also be commended," Elensky added. "Being brave enough to speak up will protect students and in some cases, can save lives."

The school was placed on a heightened security alert during the investigation, according to Haines City police. One student was on probation for a lewd and lascivious act. The other was on probation for trespassing and resisting arrest.

Both students were taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center.

"It is unacceptable for students to bring weapons of any kind on campus," explained Polk Superintendent Jacqueline Byrd. "The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority, and all threats will be taken seriously."