(Nov. 26, 2003) -- LBUSD says a loaded derringer-type pistol was brought onto the ELB campus of Marshall Middle School (Wardlow Rd. west of Woodruff Ave.) on November 25...and LBPD took three Marshall students into juvenile custody the same day in relation to the incident.

The three students, not identified due to their age, are now in double hot water. First, they face allegations under the juvenile justice system that if sustained could bring a juvenile penalty. Second, LBUSD has commenced its own procedure that could lead to expulsion of the students.

Regarding the latter, LBUSD spokesman Dick Van Der Laan said a hearing will be held before the School Attendance Review Board, which will makes a recommendation that may include expulsion. That recommendation then goes to the full LBUSD School Board which has the final say on whether to expel the students if that were in fact recommended.

Mr. Van Der Laan stressed that "bringing a weapon to school has very serious consequences. No student should be surprised that the trio who were arrested will be spending Thanksgiving in Juvenile Hall and face expulsion from the Long Beach Unified School District."

He noted that the school has prominently posted signs on campus advising students in pertinent part:

The description of "No Weapons" says that a "student who brings a gun, knife or other weapon to school -- even a toy or look-alike -- should expect to be expelled."

Mr. Van Der Laan said knives or look-alike guns occasionally turn up on district campuses...but finding a loaded weapon is rare.

Students were kept in their classes until LBPD had the weapon and the students allegedly involved in custody, Mr. Van Der Laan indicated.