Full Breakdown
Florida College Student Arrested for Weapon Possession on Campus
12/7/2025, 5:54:11 AM
Incident Overview: Discovery of Firearm and Ammunition
Constantine Demetriades, a 21-year-old senior at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, was arrested on December 3, 2025, after campus officials discovered a semi-automatic rifle and a significant amount of ammunition in his dorm room. The incident began when security personnel flagged an online order of 1,500 rounds of ammunition addressed to Demetriades, prompting a search of his room. Authorities subsequently found an AR-15 rifle stashed under his bed, along with six magazines—one loaded and five empty—multiple knives, a tactical vest, and ear protection.
Background: College Weapons Policy
Rollins College, a liberal arts institution, has a strict policy prohibiting weapons on campus. Despite Florida's laws allowing open carry, the college's regulations clearly state that firearms are not permitted. Demetriades reportedly acknowledged his awareness of this policy but claimed he brought the rifle to campus after purchasing and registering it in New Jersey during the Thanksgiving break.
Student's Defense and Intentions
Demetriades stated that he enjoys shooting as a hobby and insisted he had no malicious intentions. He explained that he typically keeps the firearm at a friend's house off-campus and had only brought it to school on one previous occasion. He also expressed confusion regarding the legality of possessing ammunition on campus, believing his New Jersey concealed carry permit was valid in Florida.
Official Statements from Rollins College
In response to the incident, Rollins College issued a statement confirming that they received a report of a weapons policy violation and promptly initiated an investigation. The college emphasized that they acted quickly to identify and contact Demetriades, who cooperated fully with both college officials and local law enforcement. As a result of the investigation, Demetriades has been barred from campus while the college conducts its student conduct process.
Criticism and Opposition
While the incident has raised concerns regarding campus safety, no specific dissenting viewpoints have been reported in relation to the college's actions or policies. However, the broader implications of firearm possession on college campuses continue to be a contentious issue in Florida and across the United States.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After receiving this information, we immediately initiated an investigation,” — Rollins College Statement
- “likes to shoot as a hobby,” — Constantine Demetriades
- “He also claimed he didn’t know his New Jersey concealed carry permit wasn’t valid in Florida, police said, the outlet reported.” — Constantine Demetriades
What's Next: Ongoing Investigation
Demetriades faces a charge of possession of a weapon on school property, and the college is proceeding with its conduct process. The outcome of this investigation may influence future discussions regarding firearms policies on college campuses in Florida.
