Crime & Safety
Melee At South Paulding High Began Over A Vape, Sheriff Says
Three middle schools convened for a dance at South Paulding High, where there were reports of a shooting on campus.
DALLAS, GA β A melee ensued after a "scuffle" between a deputy and a child during a middle-school dance held Saturday at South Paulding High School, Paulding County Sheriff Ashley Henson said.
The dance was organized by a local booster club and was held for Scoggins, South Paulding and Austin middle schools, Henson said.
Officers were called to the scene after reports of a gun and shooting on campus; however, the sheriff said that narrative was false.
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Henson said four deputies, along with parent chaperones, were offering security at the dance when a group of kids started being disruptive. Their ages are unknown.
When deputies made contact with the kids, Henson said a tussle began between a deputy and a kid who had taken off running with others.
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Adults were able to tackle the other kids who ran, and during the melee, Henson said someone yelled "gun."
A gun was not found on scene, and no one was injured, Henson said. He added the incident began because one of the kids put a vape into another kid's hoodie.
"We do believe this is all over a vape," Henson said, adding there were "a lot of hurt feelings."
He asked anyone with tips to call (770) 443-3047 or share the tip via the Paulding Sheriff mobile app.
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