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Authorities in Halifax have arrested a 16-year-old boy on multiple weapon and threat charges following an incident earlier this week. The arrest occurred at his residence at 3 a.m. on Wednesday, where law enforcement officials confiscated a variety of weapons.
According to Halifax Regional Police (HRP), the juvenile reportedly made threats to introduce weapons into Citadel High School. However, they have stated that they do not consider there to be an ongoing threat to the school community and do not believe any additional individuals are involved in the situation. As a precautionary measure, police officers are present at the school to provide support for students and staff during this time.
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The youth’s name has not been disclosed due to protections under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. He is scheduled to appear in youth court on Thursday facing several charges, including:
- Possession of a prohibited weapon
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose (two counts)
- Possession of a prohibited weapon without a license
- Uttering threats
Lindsey Bunin, a spokesperson for the Halifax Regional Centre for Education, indicated that school officials were alerted to the potential threat on Wednesday after communication from the police.
“Police affirm that they do not perceive any ongoing safety threat. Officers remain on-site at the school as a safety measure. School counselors are available for any students wishing to speak with them,” Bunin stated in an email, expressing gratitude for the police’s support.
“The safety of students and staff continues to be the primary concern for HRCE. We take all potential threats seriously, addressing them in line with the Provincial School Code of Conduct and in consultation with law enforcement,” Bunin added.
Halifax Regional Police Chief Don MacLean is expected to address the media on Thursday afternoon to provide further insights into the investigation.
More updates will follow.
Source
globalnews.ca