Joshua Garcia {BSO}
A former J.P. Taravella High School student was arrested for trespassing after refusing to leave the campus while attempting to speak with a former guidance counselor, prompting an emergency lockdown.
On September 16, the Coral Springs Police and Fire Departments responded to an emergency trespassing call that a former student of Tamarac, identified as Joshua Xavier Garcia, 18, of Tamarac, had entered the school despite being warned that he was not permitted on the premises.
According to records, Garcia informed the front office that he needed to speak with a guidance counselor upon entry. After being escorted to meet with Guidance Director Lauren Cohen, he was reminded that he was not allowed on campus and could not visit his former teachers.
Despite this warning, Garcia left the office and proceeded further into the school.
Cohen attempted to locate Garcia again but lost sight of him as he moved quickly through the building. Concerned for the safety of students and staff, Cohen immediately informed the school administration, and the school was placed on lockdown.
A search was conducted using campus cameras, and Garcia was eventually located in room 216 with one of his former teachers.
Security escorted Garcia to the principal’s office, where he was arrested by law enforcement for trespassing and disrupting school functions.
CSPD records show Gregory Davis, the school’s head of security, confirmed that Garcia had been warned on September 6 that returning to the campus would be considered trespassing.
During the incident, 2,439 students and 960 staff members were placed on lockdown as a precaution. Additionally, one student was reportedly afraid and fled the campus, jumping two fences.
A total of 24 officers and firefighters responded to the scene to ensure the safety of the school and its occupants. Garcia was transported to the Coral Springs Police Department.
Garcia was transported to the Broward County Main Jail and was released after posting a $300 bond.
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