Tallahassee Schools Under Lockout Due to Police Standoff

News Summary

On Tuesday morning, Lincoln High School, Apalachee Elementary, and Leon County Virtual School were placed under a precautionary lockout as a police standoff unfolded nearby. The Tallahassee Police Department was responding to a domestic disturbance involving a suspect with a history of serious offenses. The lockout, which allows students to continue their activities but restricts outside access, was lifted shortly after the situation was resolved. This incident highlights the importance of school safety measures in coordinating with law enforcement to protect students and staff.

Tallahassee Schools Experience Lockout Amid Police Standoff

On Tuesday morning, students and staff at Lincoln High School, Apalachee Elementary, and Leon County Virtual School found themselves in a bit of a tense situation. At around 10:40 a.m., a precautionary lockout was initiated on the campuses due to a police standoff happening just a few blocks away. Talk about an eventful morning!

The Lockout Begins

When the lockout was announced, parents and staff received an email update around 11:25 a.m., explaining that the lockout was prompted by a law enforcement response to a domestic disturbance in the nearby neighborhood. It’s important to clarify that a lockout is not the same as a lockdown. During a lockout, students can carry on with their usual class schedules, but no guests are allowed inside the school, and security measures are heightened.

What Was Happening Nearby?

The situation involved the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) investigating a domestic disturbance. The suspect, identified as Laddaris Small, had allegedly committed battery and made threats, including the possibility of using a firearm. Reports indicated that Small, who is 32 years old, had active warrants out of Georgia for violation of probation linked to serious offenses such as aggravated assault and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Officers made contact with Small at approximately 10:00 a.m., but instead of cooperating, he fled into a nearby residence and barricaded himself inside. This led the TPD to call in their Tactical Apprehension and Control Team to help handle the situation. With such a serious concern, the swift action to secure the schools provides a layer of reassurance to students and parents alike.

Resolution at Last

Just an hour after the lockout began, the tension dissipated. Around 11:41 a.m., Small exited the residence and was taken into custody without any further incidents. The whole situation wrapped up relatively quickly, much to the relief of students, faculty, and parents. Small now faces several charges, including violation of probation, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and resisting without violence.

Community Response and Support

The lockout ended around 11:40 a.m., and the administration at Lincoln High School expressed their gratitude to local law enforcement for their diligent work in handling the potentially dangerous situation. They also took a moment to thank the staff and students for their patience during a rather unexpected disruption to the school day.

According to a spokesperson for Leon County Schools, such lockouts are not uncommon during law enforcement activities happening in the vicinity. The priority for schools is ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff at all times. Having procedures like the lockout in place helps classroom activities continue while addressing external threats, making it an essential part of school emergency management.

Looking Forward

As the community of Tallahassee comes together following this incident, one can only hope for a peaceful continuation of the school year. Students are back to their studies, teachers are ready to engage, and local law enforcement remains vigilant in ensuring public safety. With situational awareness and the availability of clear communication, days like these serve as reminders of the importance of preparedness and the community’s resilience.

So, parents and students, the next time you’re in class and hear about an unusual situation nearby, know that your school has your back! Stay safe, and keep learning!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tallahassee Schools Under Lockout Due to Domestic Disturbance

Additional Resources

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