MADISON COUNTY, OH (WCMH) — A 14-year-old boy is still in juvenile detention after posting a school shooting threat Thursday night on social media.
The student goes to Jonathan Alder Junior High School in Plain City.
The junior high was monitored by a sheriff’s deputy during classroom hours to ensure student and staff safety. Everything went on as normal with no incidents.
“Although a vague threat it was still enough that we needed to take immediate action,” said Madison County Sheriff Jim Sabin.
Last night, several concerned parents and students called authorities about a school shooting threat seen on Instagram.
“The post was a depiction of a cartoon character holding a firearm and made reference to a good day for a school shooting and so-forth and then indicated tomorrow, which would be today,” said Sheriff Sabin.
He said they identified the 14-year-old student and deputies went to his home, where the boy admitted to posting the threat.
“Whether or not that was truly his intention at this point, we’re still making that determination,” said Sheriff Sabin.
He stressed that any kind of threat, no matter how small, should always be reported.
“It’s a very difficult call to make, to know whether he was possibly seeking attention for himself or whether there was something in the background we’re still unaware of,” said Sheriff Sabin.
He also encourages parent oversight in what their children are doing online.
“The parents really need to pay attention and have discussion with their children before something like this comes up,” said Sheriff Sabin.
Jonathan Alder Local School District superintendent Gary Chapman delivered an automated message to parents this morning:
“Last night there was a post made to social media via Instagram. The post, which contained a cartoon character, referenced the potential for a school shooting. The threat was made by one of our Junior High students. We were made aware of the threat and worked with the Madison County Sheriff’s Department throughout the night and the student was taken into custody. Again, the student who posted the threat is in custody at this time.
I want to emphasize that we take all threats seriously and the safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
We also want you to know that a law enforcement presence will be maintained at the school today although there is no indication of any other involvement.
In addition, we are extremely grateful to the individuals who said something and the quick response of Sheriff Sabin and the Madison County Sheriff’s department.
Thank You and we look forward to seeing everyone at school today.”
School officials said the majority of students were in attendance today, but there were more absences than normal.
The boy was in court today. A judge ordered him to get a psychological evaluation and to remain in custody.