A person armed with a knife and carrying an altered identification card was arrested at Maricopa High School today.

Maricopa High School Principal Deanna McNamee emailed a letter to MHS parents today, informing them about the unauthorized person, who is now in police custody.

The intruder is expected to be charged with interference with or disruption of an educational institution, a Class 6 felony punishable by nearly two years in prison and a $150,000 fine.

McNamee said MUSD will actively pursue charges in accordance with the law.

“The Maricopa Unified School District and Maricopa Police Department take all threats seriously,” McNamee’s email states.

“… I understand that incidents like these can be concerning for our families, and I want to assure you that we are taking every necessary step to ensure the continued safety and security of our school community.”