Marijuana Bust at Marrington Middle

Two Marrington Middle School students, ages 12 and 13, were charged with marijuana possession last week.

School staff were alerted to the possibility that the students had drugs. After a search, the school principal told police that he found the marijuana in the students' book bags.

Their parents were contacted, along with Goose Creek Police. Each student was charged with simple possession of marijuana (1 oz. or less) and released into their parents' custody.

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In a statement to Patch, the Berkeley County School District noted that the district's alcohol and drug policy is stated in each school's handbook.

"Berkeley County School District does not tolerate the possession or use of illegal substances," read the statement.

The protocal for a first-time possession violation results in notification of law enforcement, a three-day suspension from school and enrollment in an intervention program or a recommendation for expulsion.

District Policy on Alcohol and Drugs

"No student, regardless of age, will possess, use, sell, purchase, barter, distribute or be under the influence of intoxicating substances. Such substances shall include, but not be limited to, alcoholic beverages or other controlled substances or prescription drugs for which the student does not have proper prescription. Such substances may also include improper use of materials that have an intoxicating effect.

"In determining whether a student is under the influence of an intoxicating substance, the student’s appearance, manner, and any statements made by the student may be considered without regard to the amount of alcohol/controlled substance consumed.

"No student will aid, abet, assist, or conceal the possession, consumption, purchase, or distribution of any intoxicating substance. No student will possess, market, or distribute any substance which is represented to be or is substantially similar in color, shape, size, or markings to an alcoholic beverage, controlled substance, or improperly obtained prescription drug.

"A first time violation will result in a three-day suspension and notification to law enforcement officials. The student is required to enroll in the School Intervention Program (SCIP) prior to re-entering school or she/he will be recommended for expulsion.

"For a second violation or in the case of selling/possession of drugs with the intent to distribute, students will receive a five-day suspension. The school principal will notify law enforcement officials of the incident and immediately initiate expulsion proceedings through the administrative supervisor.

"This policy shall be in effect under the following circumstances:

• On school property (including buildings, grounds, and vehicles)
• At any school-sponsored activity, function, or events, whether on or off school grounds (including any place having an interscholastic athletic contest)
• In route to or from, or during any field trip
• During any trip or activity sponsored by the board or under the supervision of the board or its authorized agents"