Gun Smuggled Into Juvenile Jail

HOUSTON - A loaded gun was smuggled into the Harris County Juvenile Justice Center, KPRC Local 2 reported Tuesday.

Investigators said a 16-year-old was taken to the facility on Monday on charges of violating his probation. Officials have not said the charge for which the teen was on probation.

The teen was searched at least three times, including a strip search. Detectives said he somehow managed to conceal a small-caliber handgun.

Officials said the gun was found under a mattress in the teen's cell after another boy warned jailers.

"If we have a breakdown like this, nobody is safe," Judge Michael Schneider said. "Where they eventually end up is in the courtroom with families, lawyers, the public. Courtrooms are supposed to be a safe place."

Investigators are working to figure out how the gun was missed during the searches.

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