Officials say a teen will face a judge today for slashing another student during a fight in Freeport High School.

Two male juvenile students at Freeport H.S. were involved in an altercation that became physical around 12:50 p.m. Wednesday, according to detectives.

A 15-year-old male juvenile used a box-cutter knife to cause lacerations to a 14-year-old male during the altercation, police say.

In response to the incident, Freeport High School students had their bags searched prior to entering the building on Thursday.

Students told News 12 that the violent altercation made them feel scared.  

Parents said they'd like the increased security to continue.

James Vilme is the father of two teens at the school. He said, "We should do better, please! Let's keep our kids safe."

"What happened yesterday was outrageous and shouldn't have happened," said a parent, who wished to remain anonymous. I've been in this community for 17 years, and two of my sons graduated from here. I now have a freshman here. I need her to graduate."

Several parents said they would welcome metal detectors.

Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy said he's asked the Freeport School District Superintendent to install them for years, but it hasn't happened.

News 12 reached out to the school district, which was not readily available to comment on metal detectors.

Nassau police say there is no evidence that the fight was gang-related.

The 15-year-old male juvenile was arrested without incident and is charged with assault and possession of a dangerous weapon.   

The superintendent of the schools released a statement to News 12 saying, "The district did not disclose the type of weapon used in the incident to avoid compromising the police investigation.

 

There are those in the community who are irresponsibly making suggestions regarding the school district’s security, some of which are false and inaccurate. The district does not disclose specifics regarding our security plans to avoid compromising the safety of our students and staff. We are always reviewing our current security protocols and exploring future enhancements. All security procedures are evaluated and implemented that are in the best interests of our students and staff and are aligned with the needs of our community.

 

As this is an ongoing investigation, the district cannot comment on the specifics of the situation. The district does not tolerate bullying of any kind. We take all allegations of bullying very seriously and thoroughly investigate such claims. The safety and wellbeing of our students is a top priority and we are committed to providing them with a safe and nurturing atmosphere. We are extremely diligent in educating our students about bullying and have numerous programs in place districtwide to support that mission."