Student detained after Boise schools threatened on social media. No charges filed
A Boise School District student was detained by police Wednesday after a report that the student made a threat toward two schools and continued speculation on social media.
By Thursday the school district determined that there was "no credible threat" to Fairmont Junior High, Capital High School or any other schools in the district, according to a news release. The Boise Police Department declined to comment and said that if anyone was arrested or charged with a crime, the public would be informed.
The school district also issued a news release addressing a "number of social media threats" that were being circulated online regarding schools in the Treasure Valley and throughout the nation.
"This serves as a good reminder for parents to discuss with their children that any threat against the school, students or staff, even one made as a prank, will be investigated fully by law enforcement and may result in serious consequences," Capital High School Principal Derek Gardner wrote in a Wednesday letter to parents and staff.
In a Thursday morning news release, the district reminded people that sharing or modifying the social media threats, "whether intentional or not," can cause confusion and contribute to the spread of false information.
"This can hinder law enforcement efforts and create unnecessary anxiety in our community," the school district said. "Such actions carry significant consequences, including legal implications and school disciplinary measures. They also cause severe mental stress for individuals who are intentionally misidentified and targeted."
The district reminded parents to have "ongoing conversations" with their children about the seriousness of making or engaging in social media threats, and recommended that if someone sees a threat on social media, take a screenshot of the post and report it to law enforcement.
The district added that it is developing and identifying resources to help parents speak with their children about safety and social media.
