In a shocking incident at Glasgow High School in Newark, Delaware, three teenagers were arrested after one allegedly brought a loaded handgun into the school. The event unfolded just before 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 3, when staff reported overhearing the students discussing a handgun. School Resource Officer was alerted and entered the hallway where the students were present.
The Incident
When the officer approached the 15‑year‑old, the boy ran into the hallway, sparking a brief struggle. The 17‑year‑old and 18‑year‑old, identified as Troy Alston, then grabbed the officer from behind in an attempt to prevent the arrest of the younger student. All three students were ultimately taken into custody by responding officers.
Charges and Legal Outcomes
The 15‑year‑old faces charges of resisting arrest and possession of a firearm in a safe school zone, among other related offenses. He is being held at a Department of Services for Children, Youth & Their Families facility on a $117,000 cash bond.
The 17‑year‑old is charged with conspiracy, hindering prosecution, and offensive touching of a law enforcement officer. He was released back to his family after posting the required bond.
Alston is charged with the same offenses—conspiracy, hindering prosecution, and offensive touching of a law enforcement officer—and was released on a $5,000 secured bond.
The Weapon
During the search of the 15‑year‑old’s backpack, officers discovered a loaded .40 caliber handgun. The firearm had previously been reported as stolen to the New Castle City Police Department. No injuries were reported among students or staff.
School and Police Response
Glasgow High School staff promptly informed the School Resource Officer of the overheard conversation, demonstrating the school’s vigilance in maintaining a safe environment. The officer’s quick intervention and subsequent arrest of all three students underscored the effectiveness of the school’s security protocols.
The New Castle City Police Department coordinated with Delaware State Police to secure the scene and process the evidence. The handgun was seized and will be examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Legal Context
Under Delaware law, possession of a firearm in a school zone is a serious offense, particularly when the weapon is loaded. Resisting arrest and offensive touching of a law enforcement officer further compound the legal ramifications for the students involved.
The charges of conspiracy and hindering prosecution reflect the authorities’ determination to address any attempts to obstruct the lawful arrest of the 15‑year‑old.
Bond Details
The $117,000 cash bond for the 15‑year‑old reflects the severity of the charges and the potential risk associated with a loaded firearm in a school setting. The $5,000 secured bond for Alston indicates a lower perceived flight risk compared to the youngest student.
Both bonds were set by the court to ensure the students’ appearance at future legal proceedings while maintaining public safety.
No Injuries
Despite the tense confrontation, no students or staff sustained injuries during the incident. This outcome highlights the swift and controlled response by school personnel and law enforcement.
The absence of physical harm also suggests that the officers were able to de‑escalate the situation before it escalated further.
Key Takeaways
- Three teenagers were arrested after a loaded handgun was found in a backpack at Glasgow High School.
- The 15‑year‑old faces multiple charges, including resisting arrest and possession of a firearm in a safe school zone.
- The 17‑year‑old and Troy Alston were charged with conspiracy, hindering prosecution, and offensive touching of a law enforcement officer.
Closing
The incident at Glasgow High School serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant school security measures and the serious legal consequences that can arise from bringing a weapon onto school property. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stolen handgun, while the legal process moves forward for the arrested students. The community remains attentive as the case develops, emphasizing the need for ongoing cooperation between schools and law enforcement to safeguard students and staff.
