Eight guns have been seized from students inside Baltimore City Public Schools this school year.
One is equipped with a 30-round magazine, which is more than what police are issued.
"It's a matter of time before one of these students brings a gun to school with ill intent," said Jason Johnson, reacting to the gun seizures.
Tragically, that time came back in early September when police say a Mervo High School student was shot and killed in the parking lot of the high school during dismissal.
The gun used in the crime is the only weapon where a picture of it was not released because it's now part of a murder investigation.
"Our message to parents is we're doing the best we can with what we have," said Sgt. Clyde Boatwright.
The Baltimore City Schools FOP President was speaking to what he believes is an unfortunate reality.
By law, Baltimore City Schools Officers are not permitted to have their firearm while inside school buildings, rather the weapon must be kept in a safe.
"We are now handicapping our school police," said Robert Stokes, back in September.
Stokes has joined Boatwright's longtime calls to change the law.
That would require action from state lawmakers in Annapolis.
FOX45 News reached out to each member of the General Assembly who represents Baltimore City and asked the following questions:
- Do you believe enhanced security measures are needed in response to this issue?
- What can you do within your capacity to better address guns in schools?
- What’s your stance when it comes to the debate over whether Baltimore City Schools Police should be permitted to have their weapon on their person while inside school buildings?
- Would you support and/or lead efforts to change this law?
As of early Friday evening, those questions either went unanswered or were ignored.
"This is an all hands on deck needed approach," said Mayor Brandon Scott, after the officers seized the 7th gun of the school year.
Scott then spoke to the need for consequence and accountability after the arrest of students.
In this most recent case where a gun was seized from Carver High School on December 1, 2022, a police source says two students were taken into custody.
But, the problem persists.
Eight guns seized within 14 weeks which translates to the discovery of a gun every other week.
The total is also already more than half of the record 15 guns seized from City Schools last school year.
It's unclear what, if any charges the students are now facing.
FOX45 News also submitted similar questions to Baltimore City Public Schools.
Specifically, asking about the Superintendent's stance on the arming of officers while inside school buildings.
A spokesperson wrote,
"One gun found on Baltimore City Public Schools campuses is one gun too many. In instances where weapons were identified, many of those weapons never entered the school building; they were caught during our screening process or found outside of school. City Schools police force, staff and students have been instrumental in efforts to keep weapons out of schools, through vigilant observation and through our police officers building relationships and mentoring students throughout the year. City Schools continues to gather research on other security measures that have been successful in keeping schools safe. We will use that information to provide a safe environment for our staff, students and school communities."