The Harlan Police Department reports a student at the Harlan Community School District has been charged with carrying weapons on school property, a class D felony. Authorities say at approximately 11:30am Wednesday, officers received an anonymous tip that a student had possibly brought a .357 caliber hand gun into the Harlan Community High School on Tuesday. The Harlan PD notified all appropriate local agencies, including the high school principal and administrative office. With the help of school officials, officers spoke to the 15 year old male who the allegation was made against.

He was found without any type of weapon in his possession and denied the accusations. In speaking with other students that may have been witnesses, two were located and gave statements that they did see a hand gun in the possession of the accused student. A third student stated he received verbal confirmation from the student that he did have a hand gun in his possession on the previous day. The parents of the accused student were notified, came to the school and advised the situation.

After collaboration between the school, local law enforcement and the county attorney’s office, it was determined there was enough evidence to file a charge against the 15 year old male and charged him with the carrying weapons felony. The student was transported by Harlan PD to the juvenile detention center in Council Bluffs. The investigation continues.

The Harlan Police Department says through the investigation process, there was never information that any threats were ever made towards any students or staff members.

(Joel McCall/KNOD)