Officials detain Habersham student for allegedly threatening school

CLARKESVILLE — A Habersham County student has been taken into custody after allegedly making threats against the Habersham Ninth Grade Academy.

“This week, it came to the attention of school administrators and law enforcement that a juvenile student at Habersham Ninth Grade Academy spoke words deemed as threatening against the school,” Habersham County School Superintendent Matthew Cooper told AccessWDUN by email Saturday.

“The matter was investigated thoroughly by school officials and local law enforcement,” Cooper continued. “On Friday, the juvenile was taken into custody by law enforcement, and also faces serious disciplinary consequences from the school system.”

“Our parents can rest assured that we will not permit any student to attend a school that could pose a threat to students or staff,” Cooper said. “In the Habersham County School System, we will investigate any real or perceived threats to our students, staff or schools. We will always involve law enforcement and other resources in our investigations.”

Cooper said system officials take any threat very seriously and will respond accordingly.

“Any student who makes threats, whether real or not, will be subject to the most severe disciplinary consequences, including when necessary, complete expulsion from school,” Cooper said. “Our school system receives exceptional cooperation from our local law enforcement agencies as they stand ready to deal with anyone that makes threats with their words or actions.”

Additionally, Cooper encourages anyone with information about a possible danger to students or staff not to keep it to themselves.

“We continue to urge students, parents, and community members to immediately report any concerns to a school administrator or local law enforcement agency,” Cooper said. “As a father who has children in our school system, I understand the concerns and anxiety of parents. I trust that our school system’s proactive stance on safety will bring some comfort to those concerned. I will continue to pray daily for the safety of our students, staff, and community.”

In Cleveland, a juvenile male was detained Thursday after allegedly making threats to shoot up White County Ninth Grade Academy when students return from break on Wednesday, Feb. 21.