Police Chief Leavitt commends officers, high school staff for quick response

ALLIANCE -- At about 4 p.m. Tuesday, Alliance High School was placed on "Hold" following reports that juveniles were driving past the school and displaying weapons from their vehicle.

One report indicated a gun had been pointed at students. 

School Resource Officer (SRO) Sherlock and officers from the Alliance Police Department immediately responded. Within minutes, SRO Sherlock located the suspect vehicle, a black Chevy S-10 pickup, near 10th Street and Niobrara Avenue, and initiated a traffic stop. 

A search of the vehicle revealed two Orbeez toy guns. Officers also identified the juveniles responsible for pointing a gun from the vehicle. One of them was also found in possession of brass knuckles. Both juveniles, who were already on probation for prior offenses, were taken into custody and transported to a juvenile detention facility. 

Charges include Terroristic Threats and Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Prohibited Person. 

The "Hold" was lifted shortly after the suspects were detained. At no time were students or staff physically harmed during the incident. 

The Alliance Police Department commends school staff for their swift action in securing the campus and thanks the community for promptly reporting suspicious activity.

While the guns involved were toys, they closely resemble real firearms and are capable of causing serious injury. Ensuring the safety of students, staff, and the community remains our top priority, Alliance Police Chief David Leavitt said in a written statement.