A TEENAGER was taken away from school by police after he was suspected of dealing drugs.

The incident took place at Cornelius Vermuyden School, Dinant Avenue, Canvey just before half term.

Police were called by members of staff after a 13-year-old boy, believed to be in Year Nine was found to be in possession of cannabis.

A parent from the school, who has asked to remain anonymous, said: “I believe the incident took place at one of the students’ break times in the morning.

“There seemed to be a massive crowd gathering around a student who had some cannabis.

“A teacher who witnessed the ordeal reported it to the senior leadership team at the school.”

The parent went onto add that the student with the cannabis was searched and cannabis was found in his bag.

He added: “The school called the police who then came and took the student away.”

Essex Police confirmed they were called to an address matching that of the school.

A spokesman for the force said: “We have spoken to a 13-year-old boy after he was found in possession of a Class B drug at an address in Dinant Avenue, Canvey Island on February 12.

“The incident has been resolved via a community resolution.”

The parent added: “For that to take place at a school is extremely concerning.

“If he was trying to give it to other children, that is posing a risk to the students at the school and he should not be allowed back.

“It’s too easy for children to fall into drug and gang crime and you don’t want it happening on your doorstep.”

A community resolution is an alternative way of dealing with less serious crimes, allowing police officers to use their professional judgement when dealing with offenders.

It can be used for offences such as low level public order, criminal damage, theft, and minor assaults.

It is believed the student, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has since been expelled but this has not been confirmed.

The school were unavailable for comment.