Teen boy sentenced for taking knife into Jersey school

A teenage boy who took a knife into a Jersey secondary school is starting a custodial sentence.

The youngster, who was 14 at the time, admitted numerous offences, including taking the weapon into the canteen at Haute Vallee one lunchtime in February.

One student suffered a minor injury to their hand.

Jersey's Royal Court handed the 15 year old, who can't be named because of his age, two years and three months in youth detention.

Days before that knife incident, he had tried to rob a woman at her home in St Brelade.  He knocked on the door of her home at La Haule and demanded her car keys, whilst holding a small knife.

He had also committed a string of thefts and assaults.

Jersey Police say this was a serious but isolated incident.

"While this case will understandably cause concern, we would like to reassure the public that it is an isolated incident and that knife crime in Jersey remains rare.

"However, incidents such as this can have a significant and lasting impact on those affected.

"Jersey does not face a widespread knife problem, but we will not be complacent and will continue to take proactive steps, alongside our partners and the wider community, to keep the Island safe."

In the immediate aftermath, school staff were praised for their quick response in tackling, disarming and restraining the teenager. 

Philip Le Claire, Chair of Governors at Haute Vallée said:

"Staff responded with exceptional professionalism, and students remained calm, respectful, and supportive of one another throughout.

"Their conduct under such difficult circumstances has been exemplary."

Students were offered support.

Following Tuesday's sentencing hearing, Jersey Police again commended school staff for their 'swift and selfless actions, which undoubtedly prevented more serious harm."

The Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills said it continues to work closely with schools to provide support and help maintain a safe and reassuring environment:

"The safety and wellbeing of children, young people and staff will always remain our absolute priority.

"Incidents of this nature are extremely rare, but we recognise the impact this case has had on students, staff, families and the wider community and remain committed to supporting schools"