South Carolina has charged 21 juveniles for making threats against schools on social media.
At a Glance
- Nearly two dozen juveniles charged in South Carolina for online threats against schools since early September
- South Carolina Law Enforcement Division reported 21 individuals charged for “extremely serious” threats
- Many threats were shared on social media
- Chief Mark Keel emphasized the seriousness of school threats and their consequences
- Investigation covers over 60 threats in 23 counties since a fatal school shooting in Georgia on Sept. 4
South Carolina Takes Swift Action
Since early September, South Carolina authorities have charged 21 juveniles for making threats against schools through social media channels. These threats are described by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) as “extremely serious.” SLED Chief Mark Keel has made it clear that any threat against an educational institution will face stringent consequences. The ongoing measures highlight the critical importance law enforcement places on the safety and security of schools.
SLED investigations have identified over 60 threats in 23 counties following a fatal school shooting in Georgia on September 4. The specific threats and identities of those arrested in South Carolina have not been made public. Multiple threats targeted Lancaster High School, Horry County Schools, and several middle schools in Aiken and North Augusta.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is aware of over 60 threats targeting schools throughout 23 counties since September 4, 2024, resulting in 21 juveniles charged. https://t.co/i8OycxnmdB
— WCCB Charlotte's CW (@WCCBCharlotte) September 18, 2024
A National Trend in School Threats
Central California and Broward County, Florida, have also reported arrests related to school threats. In Volusia County, Florida, Sheriff Mike Chitwood posted images and videos of an 11-year-old charged with a fake school shooting threat. Behavioral science units have been involved in multiple investigations to assess the credibility of such threats.
“These threats are extremely serious and will be treated as such,” said Renée Wunderlich, SLED’s director of public information. – Link
Law enforcement agencies are collaborating at local, state, and federal levels to secure schools and ensure the safety of students and staff. The public is urged to report any information regarding school threats to law enforcement immediately.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is reminding individuals about the dangers and consequences of school threats.https://t.co/e0uBjwKXN2
— WJBF (@WJBF) September 18, 2024
Communities Rally for Safety
In Berkeley County, a 12-year-old was charged after a social media post threatening a middle school. In Aiken County, two pre-teens were referred to the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice for similar offenses. Sheriff Mike Hunt expressed gratitude to citizens who reported the threats and confirmed ongoing cooperation with the Aiken County Public School District.
“We are grateful to the citizens that alerted school officials and law enforcement,” Sheriff Mike Hunt said. “Our office will continue to work closely with the Aiken County Public School District to ensure a safe learning environment for students, teachers, and staff.” – Source
Investigations into these threats also include assistance from behavioral science units in multiple counties. Chief Mark Keel reiterated the serious consequences for those making threats, emphasizing that “School threats are not a joke.” – Source
