March 12, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief William Schievella, and Chatham Township Chief of Police Elizabeth Goeckel announce the investigation into a report of a student with a weapon at Chatham Township High School.

On March 12, 2008 at 12:10 pm, the Chatham Township Police Department was notified by representatives from Chatham Township High School that it was alleged that a male student of the high school was in possession of a handgun within the high school. There was a response by Chatham Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Morris County Sheriff's Office. The situation was quickly resolved and it was determined that the student was not in possession of a weapon. The investigation did result in a search being conducted within Chatham Township High School and that search was negative for weapons.

Prosecutor Bianchi credits the quick response by Chatham Township High School officials who became aware of information that was circulating within the school environment that the student allegedly possessed the gun.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "It is incumbent upon school officials to make immediate notification to law enforcement when they become aware of criminal activity in a school environment. Chatham Township did just that and their quick notification led to the successful resolution of this incident without injuries."

This incident remains under investigation and individuals with information are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, Chatham Township Police Department at 973-377-0100 or the Morris County CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio