“The use and management of weapons must remain the main focus of licensed firearm holders at all times.”

That’s the stance of the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) following reports that a 13-year-old boy was found with his father’s licensed weapon at school.

63-year-old Richard Henry, a farmer of Irwin Meadows in St. James has been charged with negligent loss of a firearm and failure to store a firearm properly.

Police say on December 9 at about 8:30 A.M., the boy was being searched at school when a Glock 19 pistol with a magazine containing eleven 9mm rounds was found in his bag.

Lawmen were summoned and following investigations, it was revealed that the firearm belonged to Henry.

Henry was interviewed and reportedly told detectives that he had placed the firearm in his son’s bag by mistake.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, FLA’s Chief Executive Officer, Shane Dalling warns that it is a serious risk to public safety when licensed firearms fall into the hands of untrained people.

Licensed firearm holders are urged not to leave their weapons in cars, especially during this festive season.