Sheriff Posts Video of 2 Teens After Boy’s Mugshot in School Threat Case

A wave of school shooting threats is sweeping across the United States, causing emergency notifications and raising alarm among parents about the safety of their children in schools. These threats come as communities recall the tragedies of Parkland, Sandy Hook, and Uvalde, cities that have faced the horrifying reality of mass shootings.

In Volusia County, Florida, Sheriff Mike Chitwood shared his personal experience with such threats after he walked his grandchildren to school. The notifications on his phone troubled him deeply. “It just stuck with me,” he said, reflecting on how many parents across the country walk their children to school, worrying whether they will ever hold them again.

Determined to take action against the alarming trend of school shooting threats, Chitwood announced his decision to publicly name students accused of making such threats. He took this bold step on Monday by revealing the identity and mugshot of an 11-year-old boy arrested for allegedly threatening a middle school shooting. This move sparked a mix of support and criticism, drawing attention to a national debate concerning gun violence and accountability in schools. Just two days later, the sheriff again took to social media, showcasing the arrests of two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, for another school threat.

The first video posted by Chitwood depicted various airsoft-style rifles, pistols, and other weapons allegedly collected by the 11-year-old. The footage includes the young boy being escorted from a patrol car to a cell, with his face prominently displayed. The video has since garnered significant attention on social media, raising questions about the balance between public safety and the privacy of minors.

On Wednesday, Sheriff Chitwood continued his campaign by sharing a video of the two teens in handcuffs, reinforcing the seriousness of the situation. He emphasized the need for students to understand the gravity of their actions, stating, “Go talk to the families who have lost a loved one in a school shooting.” His comments stress the emotional toll on families affected by such violence, highlighting the urgency of addressing these threats.

Despite the controversy surrounding his actions, Chitwood expressed his belief that something must change regarding these threats. His office has reported over 280 school threats since the beginning of the school year, a significantly high figure compared to 352 recorded throughout the previous year.

“Something has to be done,” he affirmed. Chitwood also called into question the role of parents, asking, “Where are the parents?”

Under Florida law, juvenile court records are generally confidential; however, there are exceptions for felony charges, as in this case. Chitwood, known for his assertive approach, stands by his decision to disclose these identities, focusing on the safety of the larger student body rather than the potential backlash he might receive.

Daniel Mears, a criminology professor from Florida State University, criticized the sheriff’s methods, stating they undermine the juvenile justice system’s intent of providing children a second chance. He acknowledged, however, that threats of school shootings are often treated as serious offenses due to their intense public concern.

Many have praised Chitwood for his measures, including Max Schachter, who lost his son, Alex, in the Parkland shooting. Schachter emphasized the need for accountability both for those who make threats and their parents, stating, “We can’t be complacent anymore.”

Chitwood confirmed he is exploring legal ramifications for parents of children who threaten schools, highlighting a growing trend of holding parents responsible for their children’s actions. This discussion follows recent cases where parents have faced legal consequences for their children’s violent acts.

Keri Rodrigues, the president of the National Parents Union, pointed out that the primary concern remains gun control and providing mental health support for youth. Many adolescents are grappling with unprecedented levels of mental health issues, making parental guidance even more critical.

In Volusia County, local parent Kathleen Miksits reflected on the impact of such threats on students and their families. She believes it’s essential for both kids and parents to understand the serious repercussions of these threats, despite the complexities of children sometimes making thoughtless statements.

This ongoing situation in Florida highlights the pressing need for communities to address the root causes of school threats, advocate for responsible gun use, and ensure that mental health resources are accessible to those in need.

Source: Associated Press