An off-duty deputy from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, identified as Jonathan Becher from Linden, has been charged with reckless use of a firearm. This charge follows an incident in which his gun was found unattended in a Lapeer High School parking lot. News-Journal reports that the firearm was discovered inside a lunchbox on Tuesday morning, before school began. After his arraignment, Becher was released on a $500 bond. The incident, which happened on Monday, has led to disciplinary actions and an investigation into the deputy's behavior.
A weapon was found by school district staff on Tuesday near Saginaw Street and I-69. Lapeer Community Schools Superintendent Matt Wandrie and the Lapeer Police Department confirmed the weapon belonged to a law enforcement agent from outside Lapeer County. The Lapeer Police are investigating the matter and have been in contact with the relevant agency. The officer's department has not been disclosed, but school administrators stated that "were never in any danger," according to Audacy.
Superintendent Wandrie assured parents of the district's commitment to safety, revealing that extensive searches both inside and outside Lapeer High School were conducted. However, no additional evidence was found. In a letter to parents, obtained by News-Journal, Wandrie wrote, "As a result of the collaborative efforts of district and city officials, it was determined that our students and staff were never in any danger." Additional precautions were taken without the need to delay school activities.
Deputy Becher was suspended without pay by the Genesee County Sheriff's Office after his firearm, registered to him, was misplaced at a high school basketball game, as mentioned by ABC12. The gun was found in the parking lot. An internal investigation, involving the Lapeer Police Department, is ongoing, and the Lapeer County Prosecutor's Office will review the findings to determine if criminal charges are needed. Sheriff Chris Swanson stated, "There will be harsh consequences" in a press release, as stated by News-Journal.
