February 3, 2023
Earlier this week, the administrative staff of Fort Defiance High School and Riverheads High School worked in conjunction with our School Resource Officers and the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) to conduct a search and investigation into the report of weapons in a vehicle and on property outside at Riverheads High School during after school hours. The actions of all of the professionals involved in this situation were thorough and efficient.
Possession of weapons on school property is unlawful. The Augusta County School Board will cooperate with the ACSO to prosecute all parties to the fullest extent of the law. This situation provides another opportunity to reflect and stress the importance of reporting any suspicious activities or actions immediately to a school administrator or the School Resource Officer/ACSO. It is also an example of how proactive communication with school officials and/or School Resource Officers/ACSO can resolve potentially unsafe situations quickly. The safety of our students, staff, and the greater community is our highest priority.
Sheriff Smith has released a statement regarding this situation.