Hope PD: No charges in high school lockdown situation

HOPE, Ark. (KTHV) - Hope police released more information Thursday concerning a district-wide school lockdown that occurred earlier in the week.

Assistant Chief Kimberly Tomlin said detectives identified the man who reportedly approached Hope High School, with what appeared to be a gun in the wasteband of his pants. Through investigation, they determined the man was from out of town and was looking for directions to University of Arkansas Community College at Hope (UACCH).

Tomlin said no criminal act occurred and detectives don't think there was any criminal intent involved. UACCH officers confirmed the person did later attend a workshop on campus.

Police Chief JR Wilson stated, "I want to thank the young people that observed this event and passed on information they genuinely believed to be accurate and occurring at the time. This is exactly what they should have done. Notifying Police early of potentially threatening events is very important. This affords police the best opportunity to conduct successful emergency response and prevent problems."

Tomlin said no charges will be filed in the case.