A Perry Local Schools bus was delayed Friday afternoon after a student made a threatening statement about possessing a firearm, police said.
The bus driver immediately pulled over around 3 p.m. while law enforcement responded. Officers with the Perry Township Police Department secured the scene and determined no weapon was present, according to a news release.
At no time was a firearm on the bus, police said.
The student, whose name was not released because of age, was taken into custody and charged with one count of inducing panic, a first-degree misdemeanor.
Chief Bryan D. Taylor commended the swift actions of the bus driver, school transportation staff and officers, noting that parents of students on the bus were promptly notified of the delay.
The police department and school district stressed their zero-tolerance policy regarding threats of violence. All violations will be addressed under state law and the district’s code of conduct, the release said.
Officials reminded families that the Safer Ohio School Tip Line is available 24/7 to report unsafe behaviors, threats or criminal activity by calling or texting 844-SaferOH (844-723-3764).
Police said they will continue working closely with Perry Local Schools to provide a safe environment for students and staff.
