TAMPA, Fla. – A 17-year-old was arrested Thursday morning after a loaded handgun was discovered in his bag at Gary Adult School in Tampa.
Darrice Marvin Saddler was at the school to take a placement test for the GED program when school personnel found the weapon during a routine bag check. A Tampa Police officer stationed at the school immediately took possession of the firearm and arrested Saddler.
“This incident highlights the importance of school safety and the diligent partnerships of school officials and our officers in ensuring the safety of our community,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “This also serves as a stark reminder that gun ownership comes with the responsibility of ensuring firearms are secured safely at all times.”
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The firearm was determined to have been stolen during a vehicle burglary being investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Saddler also had multiple outstanding warrants for failure to appear in court on various charges.
Saddler was taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center and faces charges of Possession of a Firearm on School Property and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Thankfully, no threats were made to students or staff, and no one was injured.
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