N.C. sheriff putting AR-15’s in schools for protection

A customer handles an AR-15 at Jimmy's Sport Shop in Mineola, New York on September 25, 2020. - Gun store owners on Long Island have been selling out of firearms as scores of customers fear a rise in violence as the pandemic escalates in the area. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP) (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images)

A customer handles an AR-15 at Jimmy’s Sport Shop in Mineola, New York on September 25, 2020. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP) (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images)

OAN Newsroom
Updated 11:15 AM PT – Tuesday, August 9, 2022

When students in North Carolina’s Madison County return to classrooms this fall, resource officers at each school will have placed an AR-15 in a safe on campus. This change is due to the district wanting to boost security and will be available in case an active shooter situation occurs.

COMMON SENSE: “Madison County Schools and Madison County Sheriff’s Office are collaborating to enhance security in the schools for the upcoming school year.” pic.twitter.com/eeffWaZpIh

— NRA (@NRA) August 8, 2022

These precautions are being taken in response to the Robb Elementary School shooting in Texas, which occurred at the end of the 2021-2022 school year.

Sheriff Buddy Hardwood said in addition, resource officers at each school will also have ammunition and breaching tools for barricaded doors.

“Resource officers will not have to wait to retreat or have to leave the situation to get the weaponry needed to deal with that threat,” Hardwood said. “Our children are my top priority and I will do whatever it takes to ensure their safety.”

Students will return to classes in Madison County on August 22.