Local law enforcement and school officials are joining Senator Pam Helming in calling for legislative action to close a loophole that allows felony offenders under 18 to be released from state custody without notifying schools or local police.
The push comes after a 2022 incident in Ontario County, where a 15-year-old student brought a loaded firearm to a high school and was convicted of multiple felonies. After serving two years in an Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) facility, the minor was released back into the community without any notification to school officials or law enforcement.
Under current law, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is required to notify law enforcement when adult felony offenders are released. However, no such requirement exists for juveniles released from OCFS custody. Senator Helming’s bill (S.3624) would mandate OCFS and DOCCS to coordinate and notify schools and local law enforcement when a minor felony offender is released, ensuring better preparedness and school safety.
“Certainly, we can all agree that any step to ensure the safety of our children and schools is a step worth taking,” Helming said. “We have an opportunity with this legislation to close a potentially dangerous loophole and ensure timely notification for schools and law enforcement.”
Ontario County District Attorney Jim Ritts underscored the urgency of the measure. “Learning that someone who locked down a school and held an administrator at gunpoint has been released because he is on or near the campus is a loophole that cannot continue,” Ritts said.
Local school officials also voiced support. Chris Barnard, Superintendent of Red Jacket Schools, said the bill would allow districts to take proactive steps while balancing safety with student reintegration. “By strengthening our ability to address these critical issues, we can create a safer and more inclusive school community,” he said.
Dansville Schools Superintendent Kelly Zimmerman echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for strategic support systems in juvenile transitions. “For schools to effectively fulfill this role, it is essential that they receive pertinent information about the child’s history, needs, and risk factors,” she said.
Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan is sponsoring the bill in the State Assembly. “This common-sense piece of legislation will enable our schools to better serve the learning needs of all and allow law enforcement to prepare for the reintegration of youth felony offenders,” he said.
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