Branford Police Investigate Incident Where Teacher Allegedly Displayed Knife in Classroom

Today the met with school officials including regarding the incident where a female history teacher allegedly displayed a knife in the classroom.

Hernandez said over the weekend that officials learned of the incident on Friday Jan. 13 though its believed that the incident occurred on Jan. 12. At that time, the police had not been contacted. One class of students was involved and statements from students in this class have been taken by school administrators.

Branford Police Captain Geoffrey Morgan said at this point, police have decided to open an investigation regarding the nature of the incident to determine if a crime has been committed. More than likely, Morgan said Branford Police Detective Ron Washington, school liaison, will be assigned to the case. The name of the teacher has not been released pending this investigation. 

This afternoon, Hernandez could not be reached for further comment.

In the initial press release, the school called the alleged display of the knife, “inappropriate and possibly dangerous conduct” but also noted that is appears the "conduct was intended as a joke."

There has been no official report given regarding the context of how or why the knife was allegedly displayed.

No one was injured during the incident and the teacher was placed on administrative leave. A substitute will be instructing in her absence.

Check back for updates.