7-y-o boy found with submachine gun and siblings taken into state care

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) says the seven-year-old boy who was found with a submachine gun at a St Elizabeth school on Thursday has been taken into its care, along with his siblings.

A media release from the CPFSA on Friday did not state the number of siblings.

Chief Executive Officer of the CPFSA, Laurette Adams-Thomas noted that “Any child who has open access to a firearm, or moreover is found with one in their possession has had their well-being jeopardised, and is considered to be in need of protection.”

She said as soon as the incident came to the attention of her agency, a first responders' team was sent to the location to ensure that the well-being of the child and other children in the home.

She said the children will receive the necessary counselling and psychosocial support.

Adams-Thomas also reminded parents of their responsibility to ensure that their children do not have access to dangerous or illegal items, and to check their schoolbags regularly to further ensure that they are not carrying these items with them to school.

"It is imperative that parents be more vigilant about checking their children's bags before they go to school, to prevent them from taking dangerous or inappropriate items with them, be it weapons, pornographic materials or drug-related items. These things do not only put your child at risk, but can also endanger the lives of other children and teachers at the school,” She said.

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