Tampa Republic

Tampa, FL. (November 7, 2024) - The Tampa Police Department has taken a teenager into custody after discovering a loaded firearm in his possession at Gary Adult School. Darrice Marvin Saddler, aged 17, was arrested on charges of Possession of a Firearm on School Property and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. No injuries were reported, and there were no direct threats to individuals or the school.

Chief Lee Bercaw commented on the incident: “This incident highlights the importance of school safety and the diligent partnerships of school officials and our officers in ensuring the safety of our community.” He added that it serves as "a stark reminder that gun ownership comes with the responsibility of ensuring firearms are secured safely at all times."

The event unfolded when Saddler arrived at Gary Adult School for a GED placement test. During an administrative bag check, staff discovered a loaded handgun in his bag and notified the Tampa Police officer present at the school. The officer confiscated the weapon and arrested Saddler.

Further investigation revealed that the gun had been stolen during an auto burglary under investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Additionally, Saddler had multiple active warrants for Failure to Appear on various charges. He was subsequently transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center.

In response to such incidents, the Tampa Police Department offers free gun locks through its Project Locked and Unloaded initiative. This program aims to prevent crime by encouraging responsible gun ownership within the community. Residents can obtain free gun locks from District Offices, TPD Headquarters, or designated libraries including Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, North Tampa Branch Library, New Tampa Regional Library, or Robert W. Saunders Sr., Public Library.