Student Brought Gun To School In Meriden, Charges Expected: Officials

MERIDEN, CT — Criminal charges are expected after a student brought a gun to Washington Middle School in Meriden earlier this week, according to officials.

Meriden Superintendent of Schools Mark D. Benigni notified Washington Middle School families that a parent reported to school administrators Thursday that a student had brought a gun to the school on Tuesday, Jan. 24.

“They immediately investigated this report, including an interview with the student, who has admitted to the allegation,” Benigni wrote in the message. “We also reached out to the Meriden Police Department, which has met with the family and will be pursuing criminal charges. The safety of students and other members of the school community is our first priority, and the Meriden Police Department has assured us that the unfortunate incident that happened on Tuesday does not present any ongoing danger to others.

“The school learned about and addressed this situation because a parent brought this matter to their attention. We appreciate our partnership with parents, staff, and community which helps us assure that our schools are a safe place for our students and staff.”

Police said the weapon was initially reported as a BB gun.

School Resource Officer Corey Sampson, with assistance from the Meriden Police Department’s Special Crimes Division, met with the “cooperative parents and student,” according to police.

“It was subsequently learned that the student had taken a handgun owned by the parents from a locked case and brought it to school,” police wrote in a news release. “It’s important to note the parents are licensed gun owners and that the gun was properly stored in a locked safe. No ammunition was stored with the firearm. The student had discovered where the key was hidden and used it to access the firearm without the parent’s knowledge or consent.

“The juvenile has been referred to juvenile court and this incident will be investigated further by our Special Crimes Division. This matter appears to be an isolated incident and we do not believe there to be any threat of harm or danger to others.

“The Meriden Police Department appreciates the collaborative relationship between police personnel and school staff that led to a quick and safe resolution to this incident. The parent who took the time to contact Washington Middle School is to be commended for making school staff aware of this incident.”

Police said there will be an increased police presence at Washington Middle School on Friday, Jan. 27 “in an effort to help alleviate any fears or concerns parents, students, or staff may have.”

“Our goal is to help school staff get back to what they do best, educate Meriden students,” police said.