St. Thomas, USVI - Before noon on Tuesday, March 17 police took preventative measures to protect students of the Joseph E. Gomez Elementary School when the department received tips of guns in the area.

According to St. Thomas Deputy Chief Dwayne DeGraff, police received several tips warning of “groups of guys with guns” near building 11 in the Tutu High Rise housing community. Police cordoned off the school to prevent unauthorized persons from entering the school grounds.

“There is a shortcut from the housing community through the school campus that is commonly used. This was a preventative measure,” DeGraff said.

Police searched the area and several marijuana trees were found however no guns were confiscated and no arrests were made.

DeGraff thanked the residents who called police to report the sightings of weapons. He assured the community that the Police Department will respond to all tips by citizens and that their tips assist in gathering vital evidence against criminal suspects.

“Don’t be discouraged, continue to be a part of the solution in your community,” Deputy Chief DeGraff said.