FORT PAYNE, Ala. — A rash of threats made against schools across North Alabama continue Monday in at least one district. Fort Payne police confirmed an arrest was made following a threat against the city's middle school campus.
"Late this afternoon, the District's administration was made aware that one of our students made threats aimed at Fort Payne Middle School," district leadership said in a social media post Monday evening. "We immediately began investigating these allegations, and, as part of that investigation, we contacted law enforcement.
"Based on the findings from our investigation and our collaboration with authorities, we have determined that there is no ongoing threat to the safety of our school community. We take all such threats seriously, and the student will face significant disciplinary consequences consistent with our Code of Conduct," they added.
Police confirmed the arrest of the student on their own Facebook account.
This is the latest in a barrage of similar incidents that have resulted in arrests in several districts, including Limestone County, Muscle Shoals, and Elkmont.
Whether a threat is made seriously or in jest, authorities have the jurisdiction to charge anyone - even minors - with making a terroristic threat. It is a Class-C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a juvenile facility based on the person's age at the time of arrest.
Authorities ask that if you see a threat on social media to refrain from sharing the posts, and instead to report the matter directly to law enforcement and school officials. This helps lessen the impact and disruption the threats may cause. Parents are also asked to tell their children about the legal consequences of such actions.
Also on Monday, a report of suspicious activity prompted a brief lockdown and a bus diversion at Priceville High School in Morgan County. Officials looked into the matter and gave the all-clear a short time later. Administrators stress they appreciate that students and staff are reporting anything that could be problematic.