After receiving two notifications via the Text-a-Tip program at Ponderosa High School, stating concerns that one of the school's students was possibly dealing drugs and had a gun, Douglas County Sheriff's deputies arrested a teenager, after searching her vehicle and finding a handgun locked in the vehicle's glove compartment.
Margaret Goeldner, 18, was taken into custody April 9 on school grounds and was booked into the Douglas County jail on charges of possession of a firearm on school grounds, juvenile in possession of a handgun — in this statute, juvenile is defined as any person under the age of 21 — and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. Possession of drug paraphernalia by a person under 21 is a minor offense, but the gun charges are felonies. Bond has been set at $1,000.
Ponderosa Principal Tim Ottman released a statement to parents assuring them the situation had been handled quickly and safely, and praising those who utilized the Text-a-Tip program to report the student.
“I recognize how concerning this situation is and I want to take a moment to thank DCSO and PHS administration for their attention and immediate response to this situation. It truly takes all of us working together to keep our students safe,” Ottman said in the statement.
“I am incredibly grateful for those who utilized our anonymous reporting procedures and brought this concern to our attention. As a reminder, anyone with a safety concern can reach out to a staff member or law enforcement. Students can send an anonymous tip through the Text-a-Tip app on their cell phone or atwww.p3tips.com/760. You can also contact Safe2Tell at 1-877-542-7233.”
In addition to the criminal charges against her, Goeldner will also face disciplinary charges through the school district.