(BEDFORD) – Bedford Police officers were called to the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County on Monday after receiving a report that a 9-year-old female juvenile had knives and threatened others at the club.
According to Bedford Police Chief Terry Moore, staff had already removed three knives and a box cutter knife from the girl’s backpack.
“The juvenile said she brought the knives because they were cool,” says Chief Moore. “[She] then mentioned a boy had threatened her last week and decided to bring the knives to threaten him back. Officers learned the girl showed off the knives to some friends and then made comments to hurt them if they told anyone.”
The girl’s mother was contacted and the child was issued a summons to appear in court on a charge of intimidation with a deadly weapon.
Boys & Girls Club officials released the following statement:
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County was made aware of alleged inappropriate conduct of a club member. The club member allegedly had potential weapons concealed in his or her backpack. The club member also allegedly made personal threats to harm three other members. The safety and protection of the children we serve is always our number one priority.
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County take any allegation, including those that impact the well-being of the young people entrusted to our care, very seriously. Upon learning of this allegation, club personnel took immediate action by suspending the club member, notifying the local authorities and notifying the club member’s parents and/or guardian. While the club member is suspended, we will continue to support him or her and his or her family by offering local counseling services, and mentoring opportunities outside of the club’s daily activities.
Our organization is deeply concerned about these allegations and is cooperating fully with local authorities in the investigation of this serious matter. We are committed to the highest standards of ethical behavior and integrity.
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County does not tolerate inappropriate or illegal activity on the part of any club staff, volunteer or youth member. All employees and volunteers must undergo a thorough criminal background check. All supervisory policies are designed to ensure the maximum safety and protection of club members and staff.
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County will continue its full cooperation with the authorities. The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County withholds further comment on this incident pending the completion of the investigation by our local authorities.
