Teen accused of having knife and vaping at school | Local News

A Lawrence County Career and Technical Center student is facing criminal charges for allegedly having nicotine vapes and a knife in her purse at school.

New Castle police charged Amber Marie Collette, 19, of Randolph Street, after a school resource officer who is a city police officer became aware of the reported violations.

The incident allegedly occurred on May 17 and charges were filed Thursday in District Judge Rick Russo's court.

According to a criminal complaint, a principal contacted the school official about a student who allegedly left the restroom smelling of marijuana. The principal questioned the student, identified as Collette, and requested and received permission to search her purse, according to the report.

The principal found six nicotine vapes and a pocket knife in the student's purse, which were confiscated, the complaint states. No marijuana was found.

Collette is therefore accused of possession of a weapon on school grounds and prohibited use of tobacco products in schools.

She will receive a summons to appear in court to answer the charges.

Leonard Rich, executive director of the career and technical center, said that because she is a student, any school-related discipline will be confidential, consistent with student privacy guidelines.

“Under the Student Discipline Code, any violation by a student is dealt with with appropriate consequences,” Rich said, adding, “I do not expect expulsion at this time.”

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty or tried in court.

[email protected]