WEAPONS POLICY

It is unlawful for an individual to bring to, possess, or have under such person's control, any explosive compound, firearm, or knife designed for the purpose of offense or defense while at a public gathering (O.C.G.A. 16-11-127). Having a license to carry a pistol is no justification under this policy.

Also prohibited on technical College campuses, in state-owned vehicles or at technical College functions, are other dangerous weapons including straight razors, blackjacks, any knife having a blade of three inches or more, bowie knife, switchblade knife, throwing knife, metal knuckles, spring sticks, any flailing instrument with two or more rigid parts hinged such that one or more parts can swing freely, nun chucks, fighting chains, any disk having two or more points or blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled, or other objects that may reasonably pose a danger to the health and safety of students, instructors, or any individual.

This policy exempts law enforcement officers, judges, magistrates, solicitors, district attorneys, prosecuting attorneys, and employees of the Department of Corrections, or employees of local or federal correctional facilities who are authorized to carry a firearm. Also exempt are persons employed as campus police or security officers who are authorized to carry a weapon in accordance with Chapter 8, Title 20, and private detectives/security agents who hold firearms permits issued by the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. Also exempt is any legal weapon carried in a locked container, locked compartment or locked gun rack in a privately owned vehicle.

An employee or student found in violation of this policy shall, in addition to any criminal action taken, be subject to dismissal from the College or termination of employment as determined by the President.

According to the Official Code of Georgia (O.C.G.A. 16-11-106), violation of this law can result in the following punishment:

• A fine of not more than $10,000; imprisonment for not less than two, nor more than ten, years, or both. A juvenile who violates this shall be subject to the provision of O.C.G.A. 15-11-37.