Threats made at a host of Southeast Texas school districts this month has led to multiple districts enacting safety protocols to address potential violent activity from the student body.
Sept. 16, Hardin County Sheriff’s Office deputies investigated a threat made against Hardin-Jefferson High School overnight involving a 16-year-old male student, according to Sheriff Mark Davis.
Davis stated district administrators and law enforcement officials from Hardin County Pct. 4 Constable’s Office and HCSO began an investigation that ultimately revealed online postings of a threatening nature, including a post that specifically mentioned the school. As the investigation progressed, the student was withdrawn from enrollment at H-JISD.
According to the sheriff, court orders and subpoenas were used to gather electronic evidence that identified this student as the source of the online postings. The student was charged with the felony offense of making a terroristic threat. He was arrested and taken to the Hardin County Juvenile Detention Center on Sept. 23.
“School district officials were quick to notify law enforcement and through this cooperative effort, we were able to quickly assess the threat and take the necessary action to ensure the continued safety of the students and district personnel,” added Davis.
Sept. 17, West Orange Cove CISD reported it was made aware of an online terroristic threat by a high school student against West OrangeStark High School.
According to the school district, its police department took the suspect into custody before the student arrived at school.
Sept. 19, Beaumont ISD officials investigated a threat at Marshall Middle School.
BISD Police Department officers started an investigation and additional officers were on campus to ensure the safety of students, staff and visitors.
Sept. 24, the BISD Police Department was made aware of another threat against Marshall Middle School from an email sent to Principal Dr. Murrell Stewart, according to BISD officials.
Officers investigated the threat in collaboration with the FBI. No lockdown was warranted and additional officers were sent to the campus.
Sept. 23, Lumberton ISD officials reported that a bullet was found in the boys’ restroom at Lumberton Intermediate School.
According to a statement sent out by the district, LISD administrators were notified about the incident and reported to LISD officials, the safety and security team, and the Lumberton Police Department.
LISD, after an investigation, concluded students and staff were not at risk of danger.
The LISD administration applauded the student(s) that came forward with the information and encourage anyone with knowledge about dangerous situations to immediately inform campus administration. –