Student arrested in Ashdown High threat
ASHDOWN, Ark.—A student has been arrested for allegedly threatening violence Monday at Ashdown High School.
The threats were made through text messages to several students and resulted in the high school being put on lock down Monday afternoon.
“After consulting with law enforcement concerning the threat to the Ashdown High School today, a student has been arrested. From information we have this appears to be the lone perpetrator,” Superintendent Jason Sanders said in a statement on Facebook Monday night. “We are thankful for the diligence of the law enforcement in bringing this incident to a conclusion. We anticipate a normal school day tomorrow.”
No details about the suspect or the charge were immediately available.
According to a statement from the Ashdown School District, several students received text messages Monday with the threat of violence toward the high school.
School officials announced about 7:30 p.m. Monday that school will be in session as normal today.
“The threat made at the Ashdown High School today is still under investigation. However, in communicating with law enforcement, we are confident that the situation is under control and that there is no danger to students or staff. Therefore, Ashdown Schools will be in session at their normal times tomorrow. Buses and classes will run as scheduled. As a precaution there will be heightened law enforcement presence on campuses,” said a statement from Sanders’ office that was posted on Facebook.
The first statement regarding the lock down was made about 12:30 p.m. Monday. Parents also received phone calls about 12:30 p.m., informing them of the lock down.
The students were being asked to remain on campus, according to a statement.
“Because information is coming through the students, we are asking that students remain on the campus. We are confident that we will find the identity of those sending the messages and that the incident will be resolved quickly. We will contact you as soon as it is resolved,” the statement said.
Many parents and guardians waited outside the high school until the students were released at regular dismissal time.
Students could be picked up or ride buses as normal, according to a statement from the Superintendent’s Office.
A grandfather, Roy Banks was waiting Monday afternoon outside of the front door of the high school for his 15 and 16 year old grandchildren to be dismissed from school.
“This is ridiculous. My grandchildren are here to get an education and not get threatened with violence,” Banks said.
Annie Turner, administrative assistant to the superintendent Jason Sanders, described the threat as “reeking havoc and creating anxiety.”