Threats Against Schools: Two Students Arrested in First Week of School
Arrests and Investigations
It’s the first week of school, and detectives with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Threat Management Unit (TMU) have already arrested two students for making two separate threats against Broward County Public Schools (BCPS). Detectives said they are also investigating two additional threats against other Broward County schools that may lead to more arrests.
Reminders from Sheriff Dr. Tony
The arrests/investigations come less than two weeks after Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony reminded parents and students at a news conference that threats against schools are taken seriously and will be thoroughly investigated.
“None of this stuff is a joking or laughing matter,” Sheriff Dr. Tony said. “If you threaten…on social media or anywhere else, we are going to track you down and arrest you.”
First Arrest: Threat Against BCPS Offices
According to reports on Saturday, Aug. 10, TMU investigators received a tip from the FBI regarding a post made by a 13-year-old male on Snapchat. During the investigation, detectives learned the student posted a partial photo of himself, which included a written threat to commit a mass shooting at BCPS offices in Fort Lauderdale. Detectives say the student was upset over BCPS’s new student cellphone policy. The teen was tracked down at his home in Weston and taken into custody that same day.
Second Arrest: Threat Against Cooper City High School
On Thursday, Aug. 15, TMU detectives received another tip from the FBI about a Broward County student making threats against Cooper City High School on Snapchat. Detectives say the threat investigation led to the arrest of a 13-year-old female.
Charges and Consequences
Under Florida law, both students face a felony charge of written threats to kill, do bodily injury, conduct a mass shooting, or an act of terrorism. Each teen also faces an additional charge of using a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.
Conclusion
Sheriff Dr. Tony emphasized the importance of taking threats against schools seriously and the consequences of making such threats. He urged parents to educate their children about the gravity of these actions and the potential consequences.
FAQs
Q: What are the consequences of making threats against schools?
A: Under Florida law, making threats against schools is a felony offense, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
Q: How can parents prevent their children from making threats against schools?
A: Parents can educate their children about the importance of respecting school safety and the consequences of making threats. They can also monitor their children’s social media activity and encourage them to report any suspicious behavior or threats to authorities.
Q: What should I do if I or someone I know has made a threat against a school?
A: If you or someone you know has made a threat against a school, report it to the authorities immediately. Do not try to handle the situation on your own, as this can put you and others at risk.