Officials warn students of new law after imitation firearm was discovered at Rochester school

Rochester School Corporation officials reported that on Tuesday, October 27, an imitation firearm was discovered on school property.

A student self-reported as soon as they arrived in the building in the morning. The situation was addressed immediately and there is no ongoing safety concern at this time. This incident has prompted officials to remind students and families of an important change in Indiana law regarding imitation firearms on school property.

A new Indiana law effective July 1, 2026, makes it a Class B misdemeanor for a person to knowingly or intentionally possess an imitation firearm on school property or on a school bus.

An imitation firearm generally refers to an object that resembles a real firearm, even if it's not capable of firing actual ammunition. Examples of items that may fall into this prohibition include toy guns, airsoft guns, BB guns or any objects designed to look like a firearm. 

In addition to potential criminal or juvenile proceedings, students who bring imitation firearms on school property may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the school corporation's handbook. 

In a press release, Superintendent Jana Vance stated their goal in sharing this information is to prevent unnecessary incidents and to ensure that students and families understand the potential consequences of bringing these items to school.