06/01/2026
FREETOWN POLICE INVESTIGATE JUVENILE SAFETY CONCERN
June 1, 2026
FREETOWN, MA — The Freetown Police Department, in coordination with the Lakeville Police Department and school administration, would like to inform families about an incident investigated on the evening of May 31, 2026.
The incident did not occur on school property, during a school-sponsored activity, or within a school setting. The matter was brought to the attention of law enforcement because the juveniles involved attend the same regional school system.
At approximately 9:15 p.m., the Lakeville Police Department notified the Freetown Police Department regarding information involving a student who attends the regional middle school. The information included a video communication in which an object appearing to be a firearm was displayed, as well as a separate text message that raised concerns for a juvenile’s well-being and safety.
Out of an abundance of caution, Freetown Police officers immediately responded and conducted an investigation. Officers met with the student and the student's parent or guardian and determined that the item displayed during the video communication was a toy firearm replica and not an actual firearm.
At no point during the investigation was a credible threat identified toward the school, its students, its staff, or the broader community.
The Freetown Police Department, Lakeville Police Department, and school administration remained in close communication throughout the investigation. While this incident was not school-based, any report involving student safety is treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated promptly.
We recognize that reports involving students and potential safety concerns can cause understandable concern among families. We ask that everyone respect the privacy of the juveniles and families involved and refrain from sharing unverified information through social media or other channels.
We appreciate the cooperation of our families, school officials, and community members. The safety and well-being of our students and community remain our highest priorities.
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Scott M. Rose, Chief of Police
Freetown Police Department
(508) 763-4017