Student arrested for bringing BB gun to Wharton High School

TAMPA, Florida — A student at Wharton High School was arrested after a tip led authorities to discover a BB gun in his possession.

On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at approximately 9 a.m., a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) School Resource deputy received a tip from a concerned parent about a student potentially carrying a firearm at the school. An administrative search revealed that Janarion Hart, 16, had a CO2 BB gun tucked in his waistband.

Through investigative means, deputies learned that Hart had displayed the firearm in his waistband to multiple students, representing it as a real firearm and stating "he always carries a stick" on him. "I am absolutely incensed that any student would bring anything resembling a firearm onto school grounds, instilling fear and panic into their peers," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We take every threat seriously, and I am grateful for the brave students and concerned parent who alerted us, allowing us to take quick action to protect everyone at Wharton High School. Let this serve as a clear message: there are serious consequences for anyone who threatens the safety of our schools."

Hart was arrested and is facing one count of Possession of a Weapon on School Property, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.