Protecting Our Students and Strengthening Our Community

A police vehicle stationed outside St. Charles High School as law enforcement responded to the recent firearm incidents.

This week, our community faced serious challenges at St. Charles High School. On two consecutive days, school officials and law enforcement recovered loaded firearms from students. One of these weapons was a 3D‑printed ghost gun equipped with an extended magazine capable of automatic fire. Another firearm was found in a student’s locker with thirty‑one rounds of ammunition. These incidents led to an early dismissal and a full search of the school with K‑9 units. Understandably, families across Charles County are concerned.

As a father, a retired police commander with twenty‑two years of service, and your County Commissioner, I feel this deeply. These are not just headlines or political talking points. These are real threats to our children, teachers, and families. They demand a serious and coordinated response from all of us.

How Quick Action Prevented a Tragedy

One of the firearms seized by authorities as part of the investigation into weapons brought to St. Charles High School.

According to school officials, both firearms were recovered because people spoke up. Students noticed something and reported it. Staff members did the same. Their quick action prevented what could have been a tragedy. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office and school resource officers acted immediately, removed the students involved, and began a full investigation into how these weapons were obtained.

This shows the power of community awareness. When we see something suspicious, saying something can save lives. It also highlights the importance of having trained school resource officers on campus. Their presence and swift response made a difference.

What Investigators Found Next

One of the tools recovered by investigators, highlighting the growing concern over homemade and 3D‑printed firearms.

As the investigation continued, authorities uncovered even more alarming information. During searches of the students’ homes, investigators recovered six guns, ammunition, and equipment used to manufacture firearms. Four of the guns were found in one student’s bedroom. Police also recovered a 3D printer believed to have been used to produce gun parts.

Sheriff Troy Berry called the situation unacceptable and emphasized the seriousness of multiple students having access to loaded firearms. He also noted that investigators are still working to determine why the guns were brought to school and how the students obtained them.

Officials also reported a separate recent incident at another school in the county where a student was found with a loaded gun. These events underscore the growing challenges surrounding youth access to firearms in our region.

The two students involved in this week’s incidents are currently in juvenile detention and are expected to face firearm‑related charges. School officials have confirmed that they will also face disciplinary action under the district’s code of conduct.

What the School System Is Doing Next

Maria Navarro, superintendent of Charles County Public Schools, announced that the school system will hold a community meeting next week. This meeting will give families an opportunity to hear directly from school leaders, ask questions, and receive clear information about safety measures moving forward.

Parents deserve honest communication about what happened and what steps are being taken to protect students. Consistent and transparent updates help rebuild trust and reassure families that their concerns are being heard.

Building Stronger Safety Measures Together

Experience matters in moments like this. My background in law enforcement and public service gives me the tools to work closely with schools, law enforcement, and community groups. Together, we can strengthen prevention and accountability measures. That includes supporting school resource officers, improving coordination between agencies, and ensuring that school policies reflect the realities our students and educators face today.

These efforts require cooperation from everyone, including parents, teachers, administrators, students, law enforcement, and local leaders. Protecting our students is a shared responsibility.

Why Community Involvement Is Crucial

A uniformed school resource officer in the hallway near the school’s athletic scholarship display.

Safety is not only about rules and enforcement. It is about building a community where everyone feels responsible for each other’s well‑being. When students, parents, and staff work together, we create a safer environment.

Families can help by:

• Talking openly with children about the importance of reporting concerns

• Staying informed about school safety policies and updates

• Participating in community meetings and safety workshops

• Supporting programs that promote positive behavior and conflict resolution

By staying connected and engaged, we can identify problems early and prevent them from escalating.

Moving Forward with Confidence

I also want to speak directly to parents. I understand the fear and frustration that many of you are feeling. When incidents like this occur, it shakes confidence in the places where our children should feel most secure. I am committed to supporting policies and practices that prioritize prevention, strengthen accountability, and ensure that families receive timely and accurate information. Your concerns are valid, and your voices matter.

I will continue rising above the political noise and remain focused on what matters most: protecting our community and our kids. Our children deserve to learn in an environment where they feel safe, supported, and protected. I am committed to doing everything within my role to help make that a reality.

Our children deserve to learn and grow in a safe environment. Together, we can make that a reality.