Crime & Safety

Gun Rumor at Marco Unfounded

Sheriff's deputies investigate a rumor widely spread on Facebook that a student was going to bring a gun to campus.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department recently investigated a rumor that a bullied student had brought a gun to and found the rumor to be false.

Some students were having conversation about a gun this week and one boy retold the story inaccurately to his mother, who then mentioned it to another parent, said Lt. John Meyer, chief of police services for San Juan Capistrano.

“This information was spread through word of mouth and the different social media outlets, and eventually, a parent contacted the sheriff’s department with a concern,” Meyer said. 

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"It was a Facebook-inflamed rumor," Principal Carrie Bertini told Patch, "but as you know, we must take all rumors of threats to student safety seriously." 

Bertini sent out an email to all parents reassuring them that the sheriff’s department thoroughly investigated the matter.

Find out what's happening in San Juan Capistranowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“We take any potential threats very seriously and an investigation immediately last night,” she wrote in an email sent to parents Thursday.

Meyer said the and the School Mobile Assessment Resource Team (SMART) determined there was never any threat.

The matter was brought up at the PTA's general association meeting Thursday. 

"The system worked as it should have," said Marcus Walton, chief communications officer for . "A student shared concerns with an adult, who then notified authorities. Law enforcement and school officials thoroughly investigated the alleged threat and found no threat to the safety of students or staff at the school."

Bertini said school staff will continue to follow up and “deal with the situation appropriately.” 

She added: “Please be assured that student safety is our number one priority and that we will always do everything possible to ensure a safe campus for all students. If you have any further questions, please contact our school.”


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