Smithville student charged for having explosive device

SMITHVILLE, Mo. (AP) -- A 17-year-old Smithville student has been charged after he allegedly brought an explosive device to school.

James R. Brown was charged Thursday with unlawful possession of a weapon. His bond was set at $15,000.

Smithville police acted on a tip that Brown had brought the bomb to school, court documents show. Police said they found Brown with the device, which he apparently made, in his book bag after he left school for a work program.

Brown has been suspended indefinitely from Smithville High School.

In a letter sent to parents Tuesday, school officials said there was no indication of a motive.

"Though the device in question was small and crudely made, and though the student's motives are unclear at this time, we are treating this incident as a very serious matter," district Superintendent Rob Leachman wrote.

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Information from: The Kansas City Star, http://www.kcstar.com