(Everly)– A Clay Central-Everly student has been charged for bringing a loaded handgun to school.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office says deputies were called to the Clay Central-Everly School shortly before 1:30 p.m. Tuesday after getting a report of a student with a handgun.
Upon investigating, deputies discovered 15-year-old Joseph Menke of rural Everly was in possession of a loaded 22 caliber High Standard revolver. Menke was secured in the school. Authorities say the gun wasn’t fired, and there were no injuries.
Menke was arrested and charged with going armed with intent…a class “D” felony; and carrying weapons on school property…also a class “D” felony. He was initially taken to the Clay county jail and was later transferred to the Youth Emergency Services Center in Cherokee for holding, pending advancement of the criminal case.
Authorities say Menke was upset over current and ongoing tension between himself and other students.
Administrators, teachers and coaches have been made aware of the situation and school officials say steps are being taken to avoid similar incidents in the future.
