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DeLand student arrested after bringing gun-shaped knife on campus, police say

DELAND, Fla. — DeLand police arrested 19-year-old student Craig Denton, who is accused of trying to start a fight and carrying a knife that's shaped like a gun.

Officers said the incident happened at DeLand High School Wednesday morning. Denton is scheduled to have his first court appearance Thursday afternoon.

The suspect allegedly flashed the weapon at other students around 11:30 a.m., officers said.

Police said the suspect fled when a school resource officer tried to catch him and he later drop the gun-shaped knife.

Denton was arrested while walking through the school’s parking lot, according to a report.

Officers said no one was hurt in the incident.

Officers said Denton is charged with aggravated assault, possession of a weapon on school property and disruption of a school function.

"It certainly is not something that’s going to be tolerated in our schools. It can't be. Our schools are where our young people come to learn. Why do you need a gun or knife at school? It's not necessary," said Chief Jason Umberger.

DeLand High School parent Marie Smith said the school should be doing more when it comes to security.

"That would stop the violence, (students) smoking in the back and skipping school too," Smith said.

As of Thursday afternoon, Denton was behind bars at the Volusia County Jail on $8,000 bond.