Note found in student’s desk, no threat involved
SOMERS POINT — City police officers were called to St. Joseph Regional School on Friday to investigate a hand-written note in a boy’s desk that reportedly contained the ingredients of a nonlethal bomb.
Police Chief Robert Somers issued a news release stating the incident began when staff at the school was packing up an eighth-grader’s desk and “discovered he had hand written the ingredients of a nonlethal bomb.”
Somers said officers investigated and that even though no threat was made, later searched the student’s house for the ingredients.
“A bomb dog searched the school. No illegal material was located,” the release stated.
He reiterated that no threat was made and stated that the notes were determined to be months old.
“At no time did we believe students were in danger,” Somers stated, noting the boy was turned over to his parents and a mental health evaluation recommended.
The boy was not identified due to his age.
Reached for comment, Principal Janice DeCicco Fipp deferred comment to the Camden Diocese and provided contact information.
Spokesman Michael Walsh said students were present “but as there was no threat involved, it was not a lockdown situation.”
“The school took precautionary measures when they found the concerning materials list and informed police, who conducted the thorough investigation,” he said.
Walsh also provided a letter that Fipp wrote to parents.
“If you noticed a lot of police presence at Saint Joseph Regional School today, we want you to know that there was a concern and it was investigated thoroughly. Please know there is no safety concern at SJRS. The issue was investigated with seriousness and thoroughness.”
By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff