Rockville HS Teacher on Leave After Bringing Toy Gun to Campus

VERNON, CT — A Rockville High School faculty member has been placed on leave — and police are investigating the matter — for bringing a plastic toy gun onto the campus, police and Vernon school system officials said Friday.

Police released a statement that indicated they were notified about the toy gun on Tuesday. Police said an officer seized the toy gun from the teacher and officers are "continuing to investigate the incident."

Police and Vernon Superintendent of Schools Joseph Macary were clear that no charges have been filed.

Vernon police spokesman Lt. William Meier said investigators do not believe the incident presented any threat to the school, staff or students.

"It was not done in the context of a threat and that there was not any danger to staff or students," Meier said. "Police continue to work collaboratively with school officials to ensure the safety of the students and staff."

Police are not identifying the staff member, citing an active investigation. Macary said the same thing, but released the following statement:

"A staff member at Rockville High School brought a plastic toy gun to school. As soon as administration became aware of the situation, Vernon Public Schools put this person on administrative leave.

"The Vernon Police Department was immediately notified and they seized the plastic toy gun. The staff member is on administrative leave and is not allowed on school property. There is an on-going investigation by the Vernon Public Schools and the Vernon Police Department.

"The safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority. We continue to work collaboratively with the Vernon Police Department on school safety and security. "

He added there, "was no specific threat to the school or students."

He said something similar in an an "informational" e-mail to parents and guardians.

Photo Credit: Chris Dehnel