DeRidder, LA – An investigation by the DeRidder Police Department into a student caught with a vape on a school bus has led to the discovery of a broader criminal conspiracy involving multiple students and firearms.
The incident began on Monday, February 10, 2025, when authorities found that the student not only possessed a vape but also had a firearm on school property.
Detectives and School Resource Officers from the DeRidder Police Department and the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office determined that the student was attempting to deliver the handgun to another student.
Further investigation revealed that several students were engaged in organized criminal activity, allegedly planning a confrontation with another juvenile group off school property and after school hours.
As a result of the investigation, eight students, ranging in age from 13 to 18, have been arrested on various charges, including:
• Carrying a firearm on campus
• Theft of a firearm
• Criminal conspiracy to possess a firearm on campus
• Home invasion
• Aggravated assault
• Simple battery
• Criminal conspiracy to commit simple battery
• Illegal carrying of weapons
• Underage possession of vape and tobacco
During the investigation, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence known as a gathering place for the juveniles involved.
The search resulted in the discovery of approximately 27 firearms.
Authorities also identified the homeowner as having an outstanding warrant for possession of firearms by a person convicted of domestic abuse battery.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional arrests are expected.
