LA PLATA, Md. — A school resource officer launched an investigation at F. B. Gwynn Educational Center on March 19, 2025, after an 11-year-old student threatened to use a gun to harm teachers and classmates. Cpl. Duley, from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, responded promptly, contacting the student’s relative and visiting their home, where no firearms were found. Maryland law prevents criminal charges due to the student’s age, but disciplinary action and a referral to Juvenile Services are underway.
The incident occurred at F. B. Gwynn, an alternative school in La Plata serving students with specialized needs. The threat, reported during school hours, prompted Duley to assess the situation. After confirming no weapons were present at the student’s residence, the officer determined there was no immediate risk. Under Maryland’s juvenile justice code, children under 12 cannot be charged except in extreme cases, such as homicide. Instead, Duley will notify the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services for further evaluation.
The student now faces consequences under the Charles County Public Schools’ Code of Student Conduct, which classifies threats as a serious violation. Potential penalties include suspension or other measures, based on the student’s record and the incident’s specifics. The investigation remains active, with Duley documenting findings for school and county officials. F. B. Gwynn, with roughly 100 students per district data, supports those requiring behavioral or academic intervention, making such incidents a priority for staff and law enforcement.
Charles County has seen three school threats since November 2024, including a gun found at Benjamin Stoddert Middle last fall. The Sheriff’s Office assigns resource officers to all public schools, following state safety protocols updated in 2022. The Department of Juvenile Services may offer counseling or monitoring, though outcomes hinge on the student’s case. No further details on the threat’s context were released as the investigation continues.
