A 12-year-old girl is facing serious legal consequences following an incident at Southport’s Sixth Grade Academy in Marion County. The student has been charged with felony counts after reportedly using a razor blade to cut a classmate last Thursday, as confirmed by multiple reports. According to FOX59, the altercation resulted in the male victim suffering a gash on his wrist and forearm that required stitches.
The nature of the intent behind the girl's action is up for debate, with the victim's mother claiming, the girl brought the blade to school with the intention to cut a child's dreadlocks. Perry Township Schools, on the other hand, have stated they do not believe the girl acted with malicious intent, as reported by WIBC. Nonetheless, Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears, has filed charges of criminal recklessness and possession of a knife on school property resulting in bodily injury against the juvenile.
Details obtained by WTHR, from the boy's mother reveal the distress experienced upon discovering her son's injury. "My heart dropped when (the school nurse) told me that my son's wrist was slit," said Angela Loveall. She is contemplating taking legal action against the school, claiming a lack of serious attention given to the incident by administrators. Furthermore, Loveall's dismay stems from the notion that, if her child can walk into school and be harmed this way, what other dangers might be permitted?
The school district's response highlights their commitment to safety and assures that appropriate measures in line with their Student Success Handbook are being taken. "While the student may not have brought the razor blade with malicious intent, actions have consequences in our schools and potential legal consequences when someone is injured," stated Perry Township Schools in a comment acquired by FOX59. The district encourages families to discuss the importance of following school rules and the seriousness of bringing prohibited items onto school property.
As part of their safety protocol, the district runs a See Something Say Something tipline, which can be reached at 317-789-3905 or through the Perry Township Schools website.
