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A TCSS elementary school student has been charged for allegedly bringing a get gun to school.

On Sep. 18, 2024, the LaGrange Police Department received information that an elementary school student had brought a weapon into Hollis Hand Elementary School.

Officers responded to the school and made contact with the student and administrators. Officers determined that the weapon in question was an all-plastic, battery-operated “gel-blaster” device commonly referred to as a “splat” gun.

Police note that, while this device does qualify as a weapon as defined in Georgia law under code section O.C.G.A. 16-11-127.1 (Carrying weapons within a school safety zone), it is not considered a firearm. No threats were made to any other students or staff. However, the device is prohibited in a school safety zone and is a violation of Georgia law.

The student was charged with carrying a weapon within a school zone and the matter was turned over to Troup County Juvenile Court.

Additionally, disciplinary action is being taken by the Troup County School System.

LPD encourages parents to be vigilant and involved in the day-to-day activities of their children. Parents should never hesitate to check a child’s book bag before sending them to school.

“The first step in school safety begins at home,” LPD said in a press release.

TCSS issued a statement on the incident saying appropriate disciplinary action is being taken, and there was never a threat to students or staff.

“The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority. We encourage you to monitor the items your children bring to school,” TCSS said.

Kelly Doughman, principal of Hollis Hand, will notify parents of the school by SchoolStatus, the notification system used by the Troup County School System.

“We want to thank our administrators, staff, and law enforcement for promptly, thoroughly and responsibly addressing this situation,” the school system said.