Two students have been arrested after an investigation revealed a loaded firearm was brought onto the campus of Plant City High School. On November 19, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Student #1, aged 17, reported that his vehicle had been burglarized in the school parking lot.
School surveillance video confirmed the burglary and during the course of the investigation, deputies determined a loaded firearm was stolen from the vehicle. Student #1 admitted his firearm was inside his vehicle when he arrived on school property that morning.
During the investigation, deputies made contact with Student #2, also 17, who admitted to burglarizing the vehicle and stealing the firearm. Deputies recovered the firearm inside his backpack.
“There is never a circumstance where a weapon should be on a school campus, let alone in the hands of a student. School safety is paramount, and we will continue working with our school partners to ensure that anyone who brings a firearm to school is held fully accountable,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “I am grateful for the quick actions of our deputies and school staff.”
Student #1 was arrested and charged with one count of Possession of a Weapon on School Property and one count of Minor in Possession of a Firearm.
Student #2 was arrested and charged with one count of Minor in Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Weapon on School Property, Grand Theft Firearm, and Armed Burglary of a Conveyance.
This remains an active investigation. Any updates will be provided by the Public Affairs Office.
