The mother of a 9-year-old who was reprimanded for playing with a tiny LEGO-sized toy gun during lunchtime might sue the principal who punished him. "This principal is a bully and a coward, and needs to be held accountable," said Laura Timoney, 44, whose son Patrick was brought to the principal's office, forced to sign a statement, and nearly suspended after being spotted playing with the miniature weapon. "The school should be embarrassed. This is a common-sense issue."
After meeting with PS 52 Principal Evelyn Mastroianni, Patrick's mother told the Daily News she expects and apology and may file suit. "Why didn't anyone step up with an ounce of common sense and put an end to the harassment of my child?" she asked. Mastroianni hasn't commented on the incident, though a Department of Education spokesperson told WCBS: "The principal reported that the student brought in a 2-inch toy gun, which is not permitted in the school. She called the parents and held a conference with the parent and the student. The issue has been resolved."
Here's video about the kerfuffle:
For his part, Patrick—who apparently likes to play with the toy weapon and LEGO police officer because his father is a retired cop—said he learned his lesson. "I'm never bringing a toy to school again," he said.
