Crab Orchard, TN– A student at Crab Orchard Elementary School has been charged with
making a threat of mass violence following alarming statements made on campus. The threat
was reported to the School Resource Officer (SRO) and school administrators by several
students, who indicated that the student claimed to possess a handgun in his backpack and
intended to shoot up the school if they told on him.
Upon receiving the reports, the SRO swiftly detained the student, and the District Emergency
Response Team was mobilized to assist with a thorough threat assessment and investigation.
As a result of the prompt actions taken by school officials and law enforcement, the school was
able to continue operations without interruption, avoiding the need for a lockdown. The juvenile
suspect has been charged under T.C.A. 39-16-517 for making a Threat of Mass Violence on
School Property.
Sheriff Casey Cox, Chief Jesse Brooks, and Director William Stepp stressed the serious nature
of such threats, which are classified as a Class E felony and carry severe legal consequences.
They urge parents to engage in conversations with their school-aged children about the gravity
of making threats of violence, emphasizing that words can have significant repercussions. “We
want parents, students, and citizens to know that we will not tolerate anyone making threats and
inciting fear within our schools and community. Those responsible will be prosecuted to the
fullest extent of the law,” they stated.
Wecontinue to encourage the community to report any suspicious or potentially threatening
behavior related to schools or public buildings. We understand the frustration, stress, and fear
many are experiencing. We are committed to investigating every threat received to ensure the
safety of our schools and all citizens.