Full Breakdown
Florida College Student Arrested for Possession of AR-15 and Ammunition
12/9/2025, 6:40:46 AM
Incident Overview: Discovery of Weapons at Rollins College
Constantine Demetriades, a 21-year-old senior at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, was arrested on December 3, 2025, after authorities discovered an AR-15 rifle and 1,500 rounds of ammunition in his dorm room. The incident began when campus security flagged a large online order of ammunition, prompting an investigation that led to the discovery of the firearm hidden under his bed.
During the search of Demetriades' dorm, police found the unloaded AR-15 in an unsecured black carrying case, along with one loaded magazine, five empty magazines, a tactical vest, multiple knives, ear protection, and a pistol storage case. Although Florida permits open carry, Rollins College has a strict policy prohibiting all weapons on campus.
Background: College Policies and Legal Context
Rollins College, a liberal arts institution, explicitly bans firearms on its premises, regardless of state laws that allow open carry. Demetriades acknowledged his awareness of the college's weapons policy but claimed he was unaware that possessing ammunition on campus was illegal. He stated that he had purchased the rifle legally in New Jersey and typically stored it at a friend's home off-campus.
Official Statements and Responses
In response to the incident, Rollins College released a statement confirming that they received a report indicating a violation of their weapons policy. The college stated, “After receiving this information, we immediately initiated an investigation.” They further noted that Demetriades cooperated fully with both college officials and local law enforcement during the investigation. As a result of the incident, he has been barred from campus while the college conducts its student conduct process.
Criticism and Student Reactions
Fellow students expressed shock at the discovery of the weapons. One student remarked, “It’s crazy, it shocked me,” while another noted, “I’m happy they’ve found it because I’ve seen him around campus, and if they didn’t do anything about it, I’d personally fear for my safety.” These reactions highlight concerns regarding campus safety and the implications of such incidents in educational environments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “On Wednesday, the College received a report indicating a violation of our weapons policy.” — Rollins College Statement
- “was not under the impression that it was against the law to possess ammunition on campus,” — Constantine Demetriades
- “He could just be super interested in firearms but then again, that’s no excuse.” — Anonymous Student
What's Next: Legal Proceedings and College Investigation
Demetriades faces charges of possession of a firearm on school property and is currently undergoing a student conduct process at Rollins College. He appeared in court on December 4, where a judge ruled that he is eligible for pre-trial release. The outcome of both the legal proceedings and the college's investigation remains pending.
