JHS student found with handgun in school bathroom; school to begin new security measures next week...

An 18 year-old student at Jamestown High School was found earlier today in possession of a handgun inside a bathroom between classes.  The startling discovery happened after a JHS school administrator was told about a student heading to the bathroom to vape.  School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker says... upon a search of the student’s backpack... the handgun was found.  Dr. Whitakter says the School Resource Officer later secured the weapon without incident... and, City police were also called in to take the teenager -- identified by city police as Narade Gumbs, Jr. -- into custody.  He's being held pending arraignment on one count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Dr. Whitaker adds the student will also face the maximum disciplinary consequences consistent with the district's Code of Conduct.  He says -- "I can tell you that this incident is very impactful for me.  I know that this information may be unsettling to our families and the community as well.  As always, student safety remains our absolute priority and out of an abundance of caution, we are taking additional and immediate steps to support a secure learning environment."  Dr. Whitaker says... beginning next Monday, February 2nd... the high school will begin using weapons detection systems for student entry, as they have done at other district facilities... such as the Tech Academy... and, at football and basketball games.  He says this will involved a new arrival procedure at JHS... and, "we ask that students and parents be understanding of the necessity of getting this new entry process right.  More details and specifics will be shared with high school families over the weekend and we ask for your cooperation and patience in advance."  He says the school will also be offering counseling support for any student or staff who may find themselves affected by this information and who wish to talk to someone.