The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a student following a tip about a student bringing a firearm to Wharton High School.
On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at approximately 9 a.m., an HCSO School Resource deputy assigned to Wharton High School received a tip from a concerned parent about a student potentially being in possession of a gun at the school.
An administrative search revealed that Janarion Hart, 16, had a CO2 BB gun tucked in his waistband.
Through investigative means, deputies learned that Hart had displayed the firearm in his waistband to multiple students, representing it as a firearm and stating "he always carries a stick" on him.
"I am absolutely incensed that any student would bring anything resembling a firearm onto school grounds, instilling fear and panic into their peers," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We take every threat seriously, and I am grateful for the brave students and concerned parent who alerted us, allowing us to take quick action to protect everyone at Wharton High School. Let this serve as a clear message: there are serious consequences for anyone who threatens the safety of our schools."
Hart was arrested and is facing one count of Possession of a Weapon on School Property.
