Crime & Safety

UPDATE: Pine Forest High School Threat Identified

Teen in Louisiana will be charged with the crime

At 8:50p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013, the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office reported that with the assistance of law enforcement in the state of Louisiana, they have identified the source of threatening letters against Pine Forest High School in Fayetteville.

Sheriff's detectives worked diligently throughout the weekend to locate the 15-year old juvenile.  The investigation led them to Louisiana to the home of the parents of the suspect.

The teen says it was all a joke that got out of hand on Facebook and Twitter.  The suspect's father turned his son in to authorities this afternoon. The juvenile will be charged for this crime.

Meanwhile, Sheriff Earl R. Butler wants the public to know that his office takes all threats of violence in our schools seriously and will continue to work to keep students and staff safe. 

School officials have worked well with the Sheriff's Office during this scare to prepare in the event of a crisis.

Additional deputies will be placed in Pine Forest High School to ensure parents their children are protected.

(7:30p.m.)

The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office has identified the source of an internet threat, stemming from bullying, against Pine Forest Senior High School in Fayetteville. Detectives are currently working with officials in another state and hope to make an arrest in this case soon.

Over the past several days, a letter began circulating on the internal site, Edmodo, of plans to "shoot up the school" before killing himself on Monday, October 6, 2013. Rumors of the letter quickly spread via Facebook and Twitter.  

Although detective believe the letter to be bogus, the Sheriff's Office is concerned for everyone's safety.  Therefore, additional deputies will be assigned to the school this week according to Debbie Tanna, Public Information Officer.

The threat was taken seriously and a homecoming dance was canceled on Satuday night. Police will alert the public if other concerns arise.



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