Centre Middle School Placed on Secure Status Following Reported Threat
UPDATE: Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver has released the following statement about the incident at Centre Middle School:
Earlier this morning, before the start of the school day, deputies were notified about a student who made threatening comments on social media involving Centre Middle School. We were also made aware that an image with what appeared to be a firearm had been shared and circulated among students overnight.
The assigned School Resource Officer, along with additional deputies and the Centre Police Department, immediately responded to the school and were already on scene when the student arrived. We quickly detained the student and took him into custody safely.
Our deputies ensured the campus was secure and that there was no danger to students, teachers, or staff. There is no active threat to the school or community. No weapons were found. As a result of the investigation, the student has been charged with Terrorist Threats 2nd Degree.
“It is disturbing that we have now dealt with two threats involving our schools this week,” Sheriff Jeff Shaver said. “I am urging parents to have conversations with their children about the seriousness of this type of conduct and the very real consequences that can follow. I am also asking parents to remain vigilant and speak up if they see warning signs or become aware of concerning behavior. We all want the very best for our children and safe environments where they can learn, grow, and succeed.”
We appreciate the assistance of the Centre Police Department and the cooperation of school administrators and staff during this response. We understand incidents like this create concern for parents and families, and we want the community to know we take every threat involving our schools seriously. We remain committed to doing everything possible to protect our schools so that our children can learn in safe environments.
CENTRE — Centre Middle School was placed on a secure status Friday morning, April 17, following reports of an online threat, according to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.
Details remain limited as the situation continues to develop. Authorities confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody and is currently being interviewed.
Officials stated there is no active threat at this time.
Deputies responded to the school and remain involved in the ongoing investigation. Additional information is expected to be released as it becomes available.
STUDENT TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOLLOWING ONLINE THREAT AT GAYLESVILLE SCHOOL
