RUSKIN, Fla. – A student at Shields Middle School faces charges after being found with a knife on campus earlier today, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
The incident occurred on Friday, April 11, 2025. HCSO reports that school administrators at Shields Middle School received an anonymous tip indicating a student might be in possession of a weapon.
Acting on the information, school staff conducted an administrative search. During the search, the school principal located a fixed-blade knife, measuring 3 1/4 inches in length, inside a student’s backpack.
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The student, identified by HCSO as Erik Daniel, 13, was subsequently arrested by deputies. He has been charged with Possession of a Weapon on School Property.
Sheriff Chad Chronister commended the actions taken by both the anonymous source and school officials.
“There is absolutely no place for weapons on our school campuses,” said Sheriff Chronister. “Thanks to the anonymous tip and the quick action of school staff, a potentially dangerous situation was prevented. We encourage students to speak up if they see something suspicious. It can make all the difference.”
The investigation is ongoing. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
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