HOUSTON — A Houston ISD teacher was arrested Thursday for bringing an unloaded gun to school, according to the Harris County District Attorney's Office.
Dajanae Jaswell, 24, is charged with possession of a prohibited weapon.
Two students at Bastian Elementary School spotted the gun in Jaswell's purse, according to HISD.
Jaswell immediately told the principal what happened and said she accidentally left the small gun in her purse.
In a letter to parents, HISD confirmed the incident happened at the southeast Houston school.
"I need to make you aware of an incident that occurred this afternoon, September 19, at Bastian ES. The Administration was alerted that a staff member brought a gun on campus. The weapon was seen by two students. As soon as the Administration was made aware, the teacher and the weapon were removed from the classroom. The teacher was arrested, and charges have been accepted by the District Attorney’s office. Please know that we take these situations very seriously, as the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. Counselors will be available to support students or staff to process this event. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the school office."
Former Secret Service agent and gun range owner Thom Bolsch said it's not uncommon for gun owners to forget they're carrying a gun in their purse, backpack or luggage.
"It's quite common for people to leave these in their purse," Bolsch told us. "I always prefer and recommend on-person carry. There is plenty of ways to conceal guns now."
While Texas is an open-carry state, guns are prohibited in some places, including schools and airports.
"I have my travel bags and my gun bags. No time does my gun or ammunition ever get to my travel bags," Bolsch said. "Something I have done my whole career."
He urged gun owners to be responsible.
"Carrying a gun is an enormous responsibility," Bolsch said. "I do recommend to take safety classes."