AR-15, 1,500 Rounds Found in Florida Dorm
Imagine walking through a quiet college campus, the hum of student life all around, when suddenly a shipment arrives that turns heads and raises alarms: 1,500 rounds of 9mm ammunition delivered straight to a dorm room. This is exactly what happened at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, on December 3, 2025, when senior Constantine Demetriades reportedly triggered a campus emergency that no one expected.
The Discovery That Shook the Dorm
The story begins with a large delivery addressed to Demetriades, a 21-year-old senior at the liberal arts college. Campus officials, noticing the unusual shipment, launched an investigation that quickly escalated. When authorities searched Demetriades' dorm room, they uncovered more than just ammunition. Allegedly stashed under his bed was an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, six magazines — one loaded and five empty — and an array of tactical gear including a vest, multiple knives, ear protection, and a pistol storage case.
The rifle was reportedly found inside an unsecured black carrying case, a detail that added to the unease. The dorm itself is shared by four students, but Demetriades had his own room, making the discovery all the more personal and alarming for his dorm mates and the campus community.
Who Is Constantine Demetriades?
So, who is this student who allegedly amassed such a cache of weaponry and ammunition? Demetriades told police "he likes to shoot as a hobby," and "used to work as an armed security" at clubs in Orlando, as reported by WFTV. According to FOX 35 Orlando, police also say Demetriades admitted to bringing the rifle to campus only once before this incident and claimed he usually stores the firearm off campus at a friend's home.
Demetriades reportedly told police he was aware that weapons were prohibited on campus, according to PEOPLE, citing WKMG. However, according to police reports, he specifically said, he "was not under the impression that it was against the law to possess ammunition on campus," as reported by FOX 35 Orlando. Furthermore, he allegedly did not know that his New Jersey concealed carry permit was invalid in Florida — and mentioned traveling with the rifle to New Jersey over Thanksgiving break.
The Razor-Thin Line Between Hobby and Concern
Here's where the story invites reflection. On one hand, you have a young man who claims to be a responsible hobbyist, someone who enjoys shooting sports and has experience in security. On the other, the sheer volume of ammunition and the presence of tactical gear in a college dorm raise questions that every parent, student, and campus official fears.
What was Demetriades planning? Was this simply a misguided attempt to stockpile for personal use, or something more? While authorities have not indicated any malicious intent, and Demetriades allegedly stated he had no ill intentions, the incident underscores the delicate balance campuses must maintain between lawful hobbies and ensuring safety.
Campus Response and Legal Consequences
Rollins College responded promptly to the situation. Upon receiving the report of a weapons policy violation, the college immediately launched an investigation. Demetriades reportedly cooperated fully with both college officials and local law enforcement during the inquiry.
He was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm on school property, a serious offense given the strict weapons ban on campus. The college has barred him from returning to campus while the student conduct process unfolds, signaling a firm stance on safety and policy enforcement.
Demetriades reportedly appeared in court on December 4, 2025, where a judge ruled he is eligible for pretrial release.
What This Means for Campus Safety
This incident at Rollins College is a stark reminder of the challenges universities face in balancing individual rights with collective security. While many students may own firearms legally and responsibly, the presence of such weapons and large quantities of ammunition on campus can create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
For parents sending their children off to college, stories like this ignite a primal concern: Is my child safe? For students, it's a reminder to stay vigilant and report anything unusual. And for campus officials, it's a call to maintain rigorous safety protocols and clear communication channels.
References: Florida Student Ordered 1,500 Rounds of Ammunition Delivered to Dorm | AR-15 allegedly found under Florida college student's bed after he ordered 1,500 rounds of ammo to dorm | New York Post | Rollins College student arrested for bringing AR-15 onto campus, police say | Rifle, ammunition found Central Florida student's dorm room, police say
