A 16-year-old boy is facing multiple weapons and threat charges after an early morning arrest in Halifax.
Halifax Regional Police (HRP) said they arrested the teen at his home at 3 a.m. on Wednesday and seized “a number” of weapons.
They allege the youth had threatened to bring weapons to Citadel High School, and that he had directed threats to the school in general and not to any specific person.
“There are not many details I can share as the youth is protected by the Youth Criminal Justice Act. And all evidence gathered is now before the courts,” Halifax police Chief Don MacLean told reporters Thursday.
MacLean did not provide descriptions or a specific number for the weapons that were seized, but said it was “multiple firearms and ammunition.”
When asked if police considered the threat to be “imminent,” MacLean said that would be part of their investigation. However, investigators did consider the threat “to be credible.”
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He added that police responded immediately once they received the information, but did not share how police were tipped off.
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According to police, the teen is facing the following charges:
- Possession of a prohibited weapon
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Uttering threats
- Unsafe storage (ammunition)
MacLean said while “it is natural to react to these type of events with fear,” he urged compassion from the public.
“Youth who consider violence as their last resort have been facing their own struggles. It can be difficult to understand,” he said.
Lindsey Bunin, a spokesperson for Halifax Regional Centre for Education (HRCE), said school administrators learned about the potential threat on Wednesday when they were contacted by police.
“Police say they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to safety. Officers are on-site at the school today as a precaution. School counsellors are available to students who wish to connect at any time,” Bunin wrote in an email, adding they were grateful to police for their support.
“As always, the safety of students and staff is HRCE’s top priority. All potential threats are taken seriously and addressed by administration in accordance with the Provincial School Code of Conduct, and by police.”
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