Former Student Accused Of Trespassing At Western Middle School: GPD

GREENWICH, CT — Police said they arrested a 19-year-old "recent former student" Wednesday morning who is accused of trespassing at Western Middle School in Greenwich.

The teen was charged with criminal trespass, breach of peace and interfering with an officer — all misdemeanors, according to police.

It was unclear as of Wednesday evening why the teen was at the school. Police said the arrestee remained silent when asked to identify himself, and he was placed under arrest. He was given a $100,000 bond.

WMS was in lockdown for a couple of hours Wednesday morning as a precaution while police responded and investigated.

The school returned to normal activities just after 10 a.m. when the shelter-in-place was lifted, but police said they would maintain a presence at the school for the rest of the week.

According to the Superintendent of Greenwich Public School Dr. Toni Jones, WMS went into lockdown at approximately 8:35 a.m., "due to an unauthorized individual that entered the building with students during arrivals."

Jones said GPS security and police checked security cameras on school grounds to determine the pathway taken by the arrestee.

Jones sent another correspondence about the incident to families later on in the day.

"Not only did the WMS staff act quickly, but the swiftness of the Greenwich Police Department was extremely commendable in determining that the unauthorized visitor did not possess any weapons or acted in a threatening manner," Jones said.

"Our buildings are equipped with security cameras, and our staff are trained to ensure the safety of everyone in our buildings. The Safety & Security Department and leadership teams are always looking for areas of improvement through a series of debriefs when incidents occur."

Mental health specialists, along with therapy dogs, were at the school Wednesday afternoon to offer support for students and staff, Jones said.

Also included in Jones' update was advice from a district psychologist.

"Talking with children about sensitive topics, such as a lockdown, can be challenging, yet children look up to the trusted adults in their lives for guidance. When speaking with your child, stay calm and use age-appropriate language. Limit details, stick to facts, and let them guide the conversation," the psychologist said.

"Be honest and check in with them regularly to assess how they feel. Please assure kids that everyone is working very hard to keep them safe. If they continue to be distressed, please contact the Western MS team and communicate the concern. Mental health specialists are well equipped to offer any student needing additional help."