LEXINGTON, SC (WIS) – A student at Carolina Springs Middle School is accused of having a loaded gun in his satchel, officials say.

“A student at Carolina Springs Middle School had a loaded pistol in his satchel,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “The administrators received advice that the student might have a gun and found it in the backpack after confronting him in the cafeteria.”

The student was immediately arrested by law enforcement and faces criminal charges. He has been returned to his parents’ care and will appear in Lexington County Family Court at a later date.

“We accused the student of carrying a gun on school property. He has been returned to his mother’s custody and will appear in Lexington County Family Court at a later date. His name will not be released as he is under 18, ”Sheriff Koon said. “This is one case where the system works. Someone took the floor and told the directors what they heard. Because they did the right thing, we worked together to make sure teachers, staff and students stay safe and learning continues in a safe environment.

The student has been suspended from school and will be recommended for expulsion, according to the district.

There is no indication that the student intended to use the weapon to injure anyone at school.

“We are proud of the students who have come forward to bring these serious concerns to the attention of administrators,” said Kathryn McPhail, PIO of Lexington One. “We need to work together to keep our school safe. We encourage our students to always let a staff member know if they hear about or witness a threat to our safety. “

For those students uncomfortable visiting an administrator or teacher, Lexington District One has a hotline (803-821-1232) where they can anonymously report issues.

The Midlands Crimestoppers program also takes anonymous reports. That phone number is 1-888-274-6372.

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