Loaded gun found during body scanner’s second day of use at Charlotte high school
A student attending the Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology was arrested Monday morning after a body scanner detected a loaded gun in their possession, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
It’s the first weapon discovered by newly installed scanners, CMS spokesman Eddie Perez said. Monday was only the second day the scanners were used on Berry’s campus, he said.
The school was not put on lockdown because it happened around 7:20 a.m. during morning arrival, Perez said.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said the student is facing gun possession charges.
There have been 29 guns found on CMS campuses since the beginning of the school year in August. The previous high of guns found on CMS campuses was during the 2018-19 school year when the total reached 22. The 2016-17 total of 19 surpassed a 10-year high, The Charlotte Observer previously reported.
CMS began installing the body scanners at its high schools in March. The equipment is faster than a traditional metal detector, doesn’t require users to empty pockets or bags and has technology to send a visual alarm to officials if a suspicious or dangerous item is detected.
This story was originally published May 2, 2022 at 9:59 AM.
